Janice R. MacLean is an emerging clay sculptor originally from Nova Scotia, Canada, now based in Maryland, USA. Through a series of fragmented female torsos, she explores the feminine form, abstracting it to reflect both the struggles’ women face and their enduring resilience. Textures, copper and bronze patinas, and Raku glazes convey the layers of life’s challenges while celebrating strength and transformation, enhancing the emotional and visual impact of each sculpture. Each piece reflects women’s struggles and strength, inviting viewers to appreciate their courage and resilience.

Janice began working with clay at an early age, developing a passion for art through ceramics. She earned her Associate’s degree in Graphic Design from Tidewater Community College in Chesapeake, Virginia, and her Bachelor of Fine Arts in Design from Old Dominion University in Norfolk, Virginia, where sculpture became her primary focus.

Her diverse background spans creative and technical fields. She worked as a Graphic Artist and Art Assistant, honing her design and visual communication skills, and in IT and accessibility roles, experiences that inspire her to strive to make her art accessible to all audiences, providing descriptive information and clear explanations to help viewers connect with each piece.

Janice’s work portrays the struggles and resilience of women. The oxidation of rust in her pieces symbolizes life’s challenges and societal limitations, while vibrant finishes celebrate empowerment, transformation, and inner strength. She works with various clay bodies, including Raku clay, and continues to explore new techniques, including an upcoming Figure Sculpture Workshop with renowned sculptor Basil Watson, which will expand her sculptural practice into full-figure works. The Raku firing process—an oxygen-reduction technique—exposes each piece to fire and smoke, producing unpredictable, luminous effects. Like the figures it depicts, each sculpture emerges transformed, expressing endurance, vitality, and resilience.

As her artistic vision continues to evolve, Janice seeks to expand her exploration of the female form, moving beyond fragmented torsos toward fuller expressions while maintaining her focus on resilience and empowerment. Her sculptures invite viewers to reflect on transformation, perseverance, and the radiant beauty that emerges through life’s challenges.

​