This contemporary studio Ontko figural Bird stands 6" high by 7" across by 5" wide. It has a very organic hand- sculpted form, rather charming in its presentation. It is glazed in an oyster glaze with a semi-satin matte finish. This bird is unmarked to my eye, but guaranteed to be an Ontko original (purchased from the artist in the early 2000s at a show in California). It is in studio original condition, with the usual hand-sculpted nuances, which are common to studio works. This bird has a nice footprint in a wonderfully wholesome presentation. More about the artist from her biography:
Janet Ontko is inspired by the simplicity and style of the Craftsman Movement. The honesty of the materials, the look of the clay, the touch of the potter, and the return to the craft tradition compelled Janet to develop her own signature style. Her line of award-winning tiles, birdhouses, and sculptures incorporates her love of gardening and nature.
For over twenty-five years, Janet has traveled through the United States showing her line at wholesale and retail shows. Her work is sold in museums and galleries throughout the United States and Japan. Janet's designs have won various awards and have been highlighted in both newspaper and magazine articles. Her tiles and sculpture have even been featured in the television set design for "Martha Stewart Living", "How I Met Your Mother", and "This Is Us".
Janet received her art degree from CSU Fresno. She worked with several Fresno artists, including environmental/architectural ceramist Stan Bitters, before opening her own studio in 1995.