Modular Mugs with Blair Clemo

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In this video, A. Blair Clemo demonstrates his unorthodox approach to making a mug using slip-cast decoration and a multi part press mold. Blair’s process is so interesting because it addresses the surface of the pot before any building is done. Blair starts out showing how he creates surface pattern using a slip trailer and a plaster slab. It is almost like creating clay stickers to adorn the pots. After his stickers set up to a soft leather hard, Blair begins the building process using a three part interchangeable mold system. If you like to think outside the box and use creative forming techniques, this video will be a big inspiration! Plus, check out the bonus interview with Blair to hear about how his tattoos and his pottery relate!

Total runtime: Approximately 53 minutes

About the Author

Blair Clemo

Blair Clemo is a potter and assistant professor of craft and material studies at Virginia Commonwealth University. He earned his MFA in ceramics from the New York State College of Ceramics, Alfred University in 2010. Originally from Doylestown, Pennsylvania, Clemo spent many years out west studying ceramics and working at small production potteries in Idaho and Montana. He has been an artist in residence at The Northern Clay Center (Minneapolis, MN), the Da Wang Culture Highland (Shenzhen, China), the Zentrum für Keramik (Berlin, Germany), and The International Ceramics Studio (Kecskemét, Hungary). Clemo’s utilitarian and installation work has been included in numerous solo and group exhibitions both nationally and abroad. To learn more about Blair Clemo, please visit www.ablairclemo.com.

Unfamiliar with any terms in this video? Browse our glossary of pottery terms!

Topics: Handbuilding Techniques, Advanced Techniques

CLAYflicks Video Topics

Beginner Pottery Techniques

Intermediate Pottery Techniques

Advanced Pottery Techniques

Ceramic Decorating Techniques

Ceramic Glazing Techniques

Ceramic Kilns

Ceramic Sculpture

Glaze Chemistry

Handbuilding Techniques

Making Ceramic Molds

Wheel Throwing Techniques

Interviews & Conversations

QUICKflicks

Sights & Ceramics™

Studio Business

Studio Tours

Talking Clay™

Workshop from Home™

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Modular Mugs with Blair Clemo Blair Clemo