Original ceramic Polar Bear sculpture on a cast glass base. On Thin Ice is part of my series of sculptures that deals with issues that animals must face due to the current state of the environment. Polar bears depend upon the sea ice to hunt seals (their main food source), and thus to survive. As the sea ice diminishes due to climate change, the fate of these magnificent animals is being threatened, putting the future of the species “on thin ice”.

This piece depicts an emaciated polar bear in its weakened state, balancing on a melting piece of sea ice. The bear is ceramic, with oxide washes over velvet under-glazes. Textural techniques give the fur a worn and tattered look, typical to starving animals. The sea ice was first sculpted in clay and then cast in glass.

I hope to promote concern over the effect of climate change upon polar bears with this sculpture. We still have the power to change this possible scenario and ensure their survival as a species.

Please take a look at her website: circestudio.com