What does an artist’s self-portrait reveal?

Looking at Art:

In the age of selfies, it should be easy to understand why people are fascinated by their own image. Each of us is unique and our identity is intricately tied to the way we look. Many artists bring to this genre a point of view that may reveal something about themselves and their art. Rembrandt made many self-portraits, dressing up in costumes which transformed him into different characters. M.C. Escher captured his image in a reflective sphere which made him look like he was inside a crystal ball. Was he referring to his art making as something magical?

Work in the Studio:

The three-dimensional ceramic portrait shown here has hair which has been transformed into figures. My fascination with the human face and body is present in this piece. I have made a series of torsos out of clay which appeared to be dancing in space. I also draw from a live model as often as I can. Self-Portrait with Figures is a pit fired sculpture, finished in the manner of native American Indian pottery.

Self-Portrait with Figures, Primitive Fired Ceramic Sculpture, 9” x 6” x 4”

My pit fired sculpture was fired in an electric kiln and then placed in a pit on a grill surrounded by wood and sawdust. Sheets of metal and dirt were placed over the pit so the clay, when ignited, would reach a high temperature and be colored by the black smoke from the fire. The red clay is terra cotta. Native Americans use cow pies for fuel instead of wood.