Christopher Staley, active ceramic artist and professor of ceramic art at Pennsylvania State University, is the juror for the inaugural 2014 Alabama and Neighbors Exhibition and Sale, featuring 14 regional artists and Black Memory Box by Staley.

In addition to the exhibition of a single work from each selected artist, all finalists will participate in a weekend-long sale, October 31–November 2, in the newly renovated Susan Phillips Gardens. 

During his visit to campus, Staley will present a talk at 5 p.m. on Thursday, Oct. 30. 

This program has been made possible by grants from the Alabama State Council on the Arts and the National Endowment for the Arts.

Artist Statement

The Black Memory Box is made out of black stoneware. The surface looks almost like metal and has an enigmatic feeling about it. Rectangles remind me of boxes that we store or ship things in. When I was a young boy, we moved frequently. Starting over in a new place every few years was difficult. I remember having a shoe box that I kept special objects in. The cardboard box and the objects within helped me feel connected to something from one place to the next—like memories can.

Christopher Staley
(State College, Pennsylvania, b. 1954)
Black Memory Box, 2013
Black stoneware

Guests of the Oct. 31 preview sale will have an opportunity to browse and shop the event exclusively and enter to win a $100 credit towards purchase. Light hors d’oeuvres and cocktail service by Ursula’s Catering and the Museum Cafe will also be a part of the evening’s activities. The public sale is Saturday, Nov. 1 and Sunday, Nov. 2 from 10 am to 4 pm.