We read desire in wishbones, rebirth in eggs, and nostalgia in birdsong. Each of my ceramic birds is a glazed surface inviting individual interpretation and meditation.
— Cathy Weber
Cathy Weber's beautiful porcelain birds are formally minimal but metaphorically rich, giving expression to a wide range of human needs and emotions—aspiration and serenity, nesting and flight, fragility and freedom, community and solitude. As objects, they are wonderful for their versatility: a single bird becomes the perfect accent on a bookshelf or fireplace mantel; a grouping takes on a substantial, dynamic sculptural presence in the home.
The birds come in two general varieties:
Perched Birds are available in a variety of colors, some with smooth glazed surfaces, some carved in relief with naturalistic designs. Wall-mounted and table stands, made by the artist, can be purchased separately.
Flying Birds offer a wonderful and unexpected way of animating a wall. Easy to hang and available in six different forms, they can be grouped into small (or large) "flocks" for dramatic, delightful effect.
INSTALLATIONS
The artist also offers custom installations—"flocks" tailored to fit your unique space, indoors or out. Cathy can come to your house, talk about your vision, and create a one-of-a-kind, dynamic artwork that will transform your home. Installation prices vary, contact the gallery for more information.
Cathy designed an installation that you immediately see upon entering, and I've received SO many compliments. It's been an amazing addition to my home. She is such a pleasure to work with, and truly wants it to be something that you can smile at every day. Mission accomplished!
— Jocelyn Lane
FAQS
How many different Flying Bird forms are there?
There are six different forms (A-F). See our available birds here. If the ones you prefer are unavailable, we can let you know when more come in!
How do the Flying Birds hang on the wall?
The birds are easily installed with two screws. (When Cathy does the installation, she adds a little hot glue to the screw heads, for added security.) The birds can be hung either left-facing or right-facing, as preferred.
Do I need to get a stand for my Perched Bird?
Not necessarily. Perched Birds stand on a 1/4-inch metal rod (provided with purchase) so you can conceivably display them anywhere that you can drill a hole! However, the stands make for a nice, easy display and are created with driftwood found near the artist's home. Contact the gallery for stand availability.
Can the birds be displayed outdoors?
Any of the glazed birds—except for the carved perched birds—can be hung outdoors. In fact, Cathy has had Flying Birds outside in Montana weather for 15 years—they’re still in good condition!
How should I curate the display of my Flying Birds?
People have curated their flocks in numerous ways (see installation photos on this page for examples). However, if you’re having trouble deciding how to arrange your birds, Cathy offers custom installations tailored uniquely to your space.
Can I have the artist install the birds?
Cathy offers custom installations that will fit your space and artistic vision. However, if you're looking to have your already-purchased birds installed in a specific arrangement, please contact the gallery.
ABOUT THE ARTIST
Cathy Weber grew up in the Midwestern U.S., studied at the Herron School of Art and Indiana University, and completed a formal painting apprenticeship in Mexico City. In 1981 she moved to Montana, where she maintains a studio in historic downtown Dillon. Though most of Weber’s work is done in oil, she is skilled in a variety of media. Her work is motivated by an increasing sense of urgency to make things of beauty in response to war, injustice, greed and violence. Weber finds comfort and hope in the process of creating beautiful images of common objects.