Salina Szechtman
Miles by the Lake Pottery
Toronto, Canada
Instagram
@milesbythelake
Artist Statement
I am inspired by nature, artists, people, and events. While I am drawn to color, I also appreciate the subtle tones of sky and water. I am motivated by a desire to create something in particular, a themed piece of work. I am not a potter who could make the same 100 pieces of cups, vases, or bowls. But I could make many similar pieces that are connected through a theme. Currently, I am inspired by Rano Kau, a volcanic crater; a tranquil ecosystem of green vegetation, water, and stone, and by people and events.
Studio Description
I work in my garage in the summer and in the winter in a small space in the basement of my house which doubles as a laundry room. So it is either laundry or pottery time. I am also a member of a Guild where I fire my wares.
What type of clay do you use?
Porcelanious and Raku
What temperature do you fire to?
Cone 6 for porcelain and various up to 1000 C° for Raku
What is your primary forming method?
Wheel with modification
What is your favorite surface treatment?
It is difficult to name one favorite as different treatments offer different effects and I like to experiment and try different things.
Do you make any of your own tools?
Stamps, stencils, and studio solutions for effective potting
What one word would you use to describe your work?
Evocative
What is your favorite thing about your studio?
Its location
What is the one thing in your studio you can’t live without?
Water
What are your top three studio wishes?
More space, natural light, and better temperature control
What’s on your current reading list?
A Thousand Years of Joys and Sorrows by Ei WeiWei
How do you save money on materials and supplies?
Reuse, recycle, and share.
How do you recharge creatively?
Engage, reflect, and consider. Explore and travel.
Do you have any DIY tips for studio efficiency?
If using a gifin grip, one of the earlier versions, to stop the clay from scattering all over the floor, I place my old file hangers in the catch basin as a backdrop. Works relatively well.
What challenges have you given yourself to overcome?
Each evolution in my pottery mastery has been based on a challenge or a desire to create a particular form and convey an image or message.
What did your first piece look like?
Like a five-year-old who loved color and pottery but could definitely improve her skills.
What ceramic superpower would you have and why?
To know exactly how a glaze will turn out without testing.
What is on your studio playlist?
Jazz, blues, and rock-and-roll
Why do you create art?
As a form of expression, passion, and for enjoyment
Who is your favorite artist and what do you admire about that artist?
Too many amazing artists to speak about. I love the colors, shapes, and patterns Calder uses in his sculptures. I admire the craft and simplicity of Japanese ceramics.
What is your best studio tip?
Know where you have put stuff away so that you spend as little time as possible looking for it.
If you could change one property of clay, what would it be?
Water absorption: it would always be just right.
