The slabs’ surfaces are handled loosely like highly energized abstract paintings — swirling, shifting and folding — except their materials range from vitrified, transparent finishing glazes to porously mat skeins of swirling, chalky slip. In terms of ceramics, Mess’ casual boldness is remarkable. But I like his works even better when I think of them as paintings. And on the wall, they look and act like paintings.
- Daniel Kany, Portland Press Herald/Maine Sunday Telegram
