Paula Murray facts for kids

Paula Murray RCA (born in 1958) is a Canadian artist. She creates beautiful sculptures using clay. Paula is from Ottawa, Ontario, and now lives near Meech Lake, Quebec.

She is well-known for her delicate sculptures made from a special type of clay called porcelain. These pieces often have a cool, crackled look. Her art is inspired by nature, like the shapes of shells or spirals. Paula is also known for trying new ways to work with clay and for her deep understanding of materials. Her artwork has even been given as gifts by the Canadian government to important people, like George W Bush and Kofi Annan.

Learning and Training

Paula Murray first studied science at the University of Ottawa from 1975 to 1977. But then, she decided to follow her passion for art. In 1979, she began studying ceramics at Sheridan College, School of Craft and Design. She also attended summer art sessions at The Banff Centre.

After finishing her studies, Paula opened her own pottery studio in 1986. It is located near Meech Lake. In 2007, she was recognized for her amazing work and became a member of the Royal Canadian Academy of Arts.

How She Creates Art

Paula Murray's art often involves setting up her delicate pieces in special ways. Sometimes, her sculptures hang from the ceiling. Other times, they are carefully balanced on shelves or arranged on the floor.

She creates a unique crackled effect on many of her artworks. She does this by shaping and drying her custom clay. She also adds a layer of fiberglass to the surface. Through her sculptures, Paula explores ideas like peace, connection, and understanding. She often connects these ideas to the natural world around us.

Art Shows and Exhibitions

Paula Murray's art has been shown in many places. She has exhibited her work often in the Ottawa-Gatineau area. You might have seen her art at Ottawa City Hall, the Ottawa Art Gallery, or the Ottawa School of Art. She has also shown her art at Art-image et espace Odyssée in Gatineau.

Her work has traveled far beyond Canada! Paula has exhibited her art in the United States, China, Korea, Italy, Germany, Russia, and Paris. In 2020, her special show called Paula Murray: You Are Me was displayed at the Art Gallery of Burlington. Before that, it was shown at the Ottawa Art Gallery. The show also toured Quebec and was part of the Taiwan Ceramic Biennale in 2018.