Click images to enlarge!
Shiree Ross,
Pyrofine Arts,
Spokane, Washington
Website: http://pyrofinearts.com/
Email: artbyshiree@gmail.com
Artist Statement:
Artist of so mediums but after connecting with clay, I found my medium soul mate; there’s something exponentially different about being completely emerged and tangibly connected to your work…it removes the third party paintbrush and you become one.
Studio Description:
Quaint studio located in the Perry district of Spokane, Washington. Perfect for the work I produce right now but looking to expand into a more industrial space where I can do large scale sculptures. The area is a wonderful place full of sunflowers!
What type of clay do you use?
Laguna mid range.
What temperature do you fire to?
Cone 6.
What is your primary forming method?
Wheel thrown.
What is your favorite surface treatment?
Combo underglazes and slip.
Do you make any of your own tools?
Yes, my husband is also an artist and carpenter and has the abilities to make specific tools, we’ve also utilized the laser cutter at the local maker space for personalized textures.
What one word would you use to describe your work?
Exploratory.
What is your favorite thing about your studio?
Solitude.
What is the one thing in your studio you can’t live without?
Small sgraffito tool.
What are your top three studio wishes?
Wedging table! I feel like such a primitive Neanderthal….and my backs getting messed up having to wedge on the floor! A pugmill & have a storefront.
What’s on your current reading list?
Bloodlines…
How do you save money on materials and supplies?
I repurpose my clay and use my reseller permit.
How do you recharge creatively?
I look at ceramics Monthly magazine, watch YouTube tutorials, and just start touching clay….that’s enough for me to stay locked away for days.
Do you have any DIY tips for studio efficiency?
Initial studio setup is important and has made a huge difference in productivity for me. Also….the heat gun has been amazing.
What challenges have you given yourself to overcome?
Setting a schedule….making sure that if I am letting things dry before I trim the foot that I get back there the next day so I didn’t waste my time.
What did you first piece look like?
A thick walled chawan that could have taken the place of Thor’s hammer.
What ceramic superpower would you have and why?
TIME…..UNLIMITED TIME TO JUST STAY.
Who is your ceramic art mentor and why?
I don’t specifically have a mentor but wish I did, I am able to ask a lot of questions at suppliers.
What is your studio playlist?
Lord Huron, Mali music, Brian Crain classical, Erykah Badu.
Why do you create art?
If I don’t I’ll explode and die.
What is your best studio tip?
Commit to being a lifelong student.
If you could change one property of clay, what would it be?
Ability to maintain any form without falling over; structural integrity without the need for support.