7.31.2009

Process: Finished work

Finally, the finished work. I tried a variety of surface masking techniques such as wax resist and tape. I am fairly happy with the results except for the slip dots popping off (you can see it on the base for the sugar/creamer set). I first noticed it when I took the work out of the kiln. Then when I unloaded the work for the photo shoot, my container was littered with them. Now days later, they are still jumping off the forms. I don't know what is causing it. I haven't changed anything except the glaze application process. I sprayed the glaze instead of my normal dunking or brushing methods. There was no indication after bisque of the dots wanting to pop off. I'm wondering if my slip was a little too watery when I applied it. I'm going to try it with a little thicker slip, on a little wetter form next time. I might also try drying the work slower. Examples of the tape resist are the matte lines in the salt and peppers. I used several widths of tape designed for painting automobiles. It was fun experimenting with it. I love the crisp edges it left. I used the wax resist to cover broad areas, and as in the blue tumbler to make dots. All in all, I'm happy with the forms and color combinations. The search continues for better surface designs.

7.24.2009

In the Mail

I've been applying to shows, both sculptural and functional, like crazy this summer. The notifications have started to roll in and yesterday's mail brought a mixed bag of news.
The bad first: I was rejected from Strictly Functional. As there were over 1000 entries from 500 artists, with only 109 objects being chosen, I don't feel too bad about the rejection. There is always next year and other shows.
The good news: I was accepted to the Wichita National All Media Craft Exhibiton 2009. I entered three sculptures and Solitary Dinner was accepted. Kathleen Royster Lamb, Assistant Professor at the Metropolitan State College of Denver, was the juror. She will select award winners upon installation of the works in September. The show runs from September 4 to October 18. The opening reception will be September 4, 5pm-7pm. As much as I would like to attend, the schedule will not allow me to do so.
I'm awaiting a few more notices. When I hear something, I'll post.

7.14.2009

Process: Beginning/Middle

I thought I would post a few in process pictures of new forms. They are sugar creamer sets with bases and a few tumblers. My roommate and fellow AIR refers to them as my Alice in Wonderland sets. They are slightly over-sized, but I figure shrinkage will take care of that issue. The challenges of these sets are numerous: lid design, handle and spout placement, and my re-occurring stumbling block, surface design. I am happy with the overall forms, but have other ideas for handle placement. As for surface, I have ideas. I'll post those results when they are out of the kiln. Until then, the pictures are of the raw forms, and then the next step with underglazes.

7.07.2009

Update on Summer Workshops

Summer workshops are winding down here at the Craft Center, and the last two weeks of classes have been canceled for a variety of reasons, most notably lack of enrollment. It seems the summer classes are yet another victim of the economy. The good news is ACC is still accepting registrations for the September weekend classes, see catalog for specifics. The dates are September 11-13 and 18-20. I will be teaching a hand building class focusing on the drinking vessel. We will explore cups, saucers, mugs, and tumblers. Call the Craft Center today to register.