Hadar Valero, ceramic artist, born in Jerusalem 1970. Her studio is based in Ramat Hasharon.
Hadar's childhood memories of exploring the Judah desert’s landscape and the herds of sheep roaming thereby, have significantly inspired her. She creates sheep using coiling technique with a variety and mixed colors of clay, which are not perfectly merged.
Each sheep is unique, different and independent, but they are all part of the herd, resembling human society. The creation of the sheep transforms clay into forms of nature and in particularly, the human nature. It is a rich tapestry of the wide variety that exists in our human society. The interplay of texture, color and forms invite viewers to engage with each piece, sparking a dialogue about the intersection of art, nature, and culture.
Sheep have played a significant role in human history, culture and agriculture. Hence provides an insight into the symbolism of sheep across various cultures.
The herd life symbolizes social community and belonging, along with a foolish march as a herd. Each sheep is the voice of a group, or a person in society. Each one is different and special, and their voice emanates from them, despite their silence.