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Chrisana Reveley,
Henrico, Virginia
Website: http://www.chrisanareveley.com/
Email: reveley.art@gmail.com
Artist Statement:
My current work is a combination of abstract painting, sculpture and pottery. I am inspired by nature and by tribal art. Abstraction is important to me because it leave my imagination free and allows for multiple interpretations of the work.
Studio Description:
When I retired I lost access to studio space so now my studio doubles as kitchen and dining room. I fire at a friend’s studio. Storage is an issue so I don’t work in large quantities. Still, I have everything I need available day and night.
What type of clay do you use?
Hightower white earthenware.
What temperature do you fire to?
Cone 04.
What is your primary forming method?
Slab building, then carving.
What is your favorite surface treatment?
Low relief painted with underglaze.
Do you make any of your own tools?
I buy most tools, but as a kitchen potter I use pretty much everything I find.
What one word would you use to describe your work?
Abstract.
What is your favorite thing about your studio?
Easy access.
What is the one thing in your studio you can’t live without?
Very small ribbon tools.
What are your top three studio wishes?
More shelf space.
Larger work surface.
More shelf space. Always more shelf space.
What’s on your current reading list?
Braiding Sweetgrass.
How do you save money on materials and supplies?
I reclaim dry underglazes and use every scrape of clay.
How do you recharge creatively?
Reading, sitting in the backyard, going to the museum.
Do you have any DIY tips for studio efficiency?
Regularly check all underglazes to prevent drying out. Keep scraps of clay in plastic as you go along. I reuse plastic from everything.
What challenges have you given yourself to overcome?
Becoming more painterly with underglaze. Mastering craftsmanship.
What did you first piece look like?
Small pinch pot with foot ring.
What ceramic superpower would you have and why?
I would just like to have my old regular power back. Clay is hard on aging hands.
Who is your ceramic art mentor and why?
I never had one.
What is your studio playlist?
I love silence.
Why do you create art?
If I am not creating something I would spiral into a black hole. I need art to survive.
What is your best studio tip?
Don’t give up.
If you could change one property of clay, what would it be?
Nothing.
