I have been making pottery since 1998 and have been drifting towards the aspects of ceramics that are less mechanized. The wheel that I use is foot powered. I mix all my own glazes. The kiln that fires my work is lit with a match and kindling. The temperature is controlled by how frequently wood is added to the kiln. Firing with wood also allows the flame to "paint" the pot during the firing process.
This results in a finished piece that is rhythmic but not regular, balanced but not boring, and every step in the process adds a nuance to the overall gesture expressed in the piece. |