Ceramics - Earth Bones Series
Artist Statement - Earth Bones
My “Earth Bones” series is an exploration of closed forms that look like rocks, stones and eggs. Many of the pieces look like they would be at home in the natural world, but they have details that clearly prove otherwise. Exploring the tension of the familiar yet mysterious and investigating how to present the forms in groups are my latest creative inquiries.
Each form is made with either two pinch-pots that are scored together, or from a closed form thrown on the wheel. The spheres are enhanced with texture, clay additions or underglaze that is applied to leather hard clay and is carved. After the bisque fire, more underglaze is applied to the piece and is wiped off the high relief areas. Clear matt glaze is applied to the entire surface and the piece is fired again. The unseen part of the “Earth Bones” is that small pieces of fired clay are put inside the spheres to make them rattle. Including this secret, magical and whimsical element makes the pieces a multi-sensory experience.
Concentrating on one basic form has allowed me to focus on exploring technical and conceptual possibilities. This simple form leaves room for many interpretations. It is a pleasure to create pieces that stimulate me creatively on many levels and remain open for viewers.
My “Earth Bones” series is an exploration of closed forms that look like rocks, stones and eggs. Many of the pieces look like they would be at home in the natural world, but they have details that clearly prove otherwise. Exploring the tension of the familiar yet mysterious and investigating how to present the forms in groups are my latest creative inquiries.
Each form is made with either two pinch-pots that are scored together, or from a closed form thrown on the wheel. The spheres are enhanced with texture, clay additions or underglaze that is applied to leather hard clay and is carved. After the bisque fire, more underglaze is applied to the piece and is wiped off the high relief areas. Clear matt glaze is applied to the entire surface and the piece is fired again. The unseen part of the “Earth Bones” is that small pieces of fired clay are put inside the spheres to make them rattle. Including this secret, magical and whimsical element makes the pieces a multi-sensory experience.
Concentrating on one basic form has allowed me to focus on exploring technical and conceptual possibilities. This simple form leaves room for many interpretations. It is a pleasure to create pieces that stimulate me creatively on many levels and remain open for viewers.
Copyright 2014 Andrea Schmidt Cough