Michael Vorisek- Running Buffalo Clover Vase

Running Buffalo Clover

-Trifolium stoloniferum

Native to the Eastern and Midwest US, this clover was thought to be extinct until recently. Usually found in lightly-shaded Woodlands along streams, it is believed that Eastern Bison once helped maintain it's habitat by grazing and spreading it in their migratory travels. Threatened by habitat loss and human activity.

Hand-carved brown stoneware, gloss glaze. Inscribed with common and latin plant name.

7" tall x 5½" wide

Plants and wildlife of course have a symbiotic relationship.  So to protect plants and ecosystems is to also safeguard the wild creatures that depend on them.  Plants are an indicator species of the health of the landscape and soil.

Each piece in my native plant series features carefully hand-carved and sculpted representations of just a few of the very many threatened and endangered native plants in the U.S.  I've aimed for accurate botany and plant forms, and like to think of these pieces as botanical drawings in clay.  The lack of color reflecting their tenuous hold on existence.

I hope my pieces will create opportunities for conversation, education, and ultimate awareness of these at-risk plants. 50% of the proceeds from these pieces will be donated to the Native Habitat Project.  To learn more about their work please visit nativehabitatproject.com

To see more of Michael's work be sure to follow on Instagram @back30pottery