Rose Serving Platter, 17 in. (43 cm) in diameter, porcelain, wheel thrown, glaze-inlaid perforations, soda fired to cone 10, 2023.

I am fascinated by the relationship between pattern, color, and luminosity within stained-glass windows as well as 19th-century Chinese rice-grain porcelain. I have recently become interested in rosette windows in Gothic-style cathedrals. I use a technique of perforating patterned holes in the clay to allow room for filling these spaces with glaze to achieve a unique level of translucency, similar to windows. I also choose to soda fire in order to create inherent qualities. Combining the elements of material, form, structure, mark making, and pattern is an effort to have a unique dialog between the flame and pooling of glaze. 

1 Once leather hard, use a laser, straight edge, and pencil to divide the platter into even segments. 2 After drawing and carving lines on the platter, use drill bits to perforate various-sized holes through the clay.

3 At the bisque stage, inlay glaze into the carved lines and holes, then sponge it off to remove the excess glaze. 4 After segmenting the teapot body, use a variety of drill bits to create symmetrical patterns around the entire form.

5 After glazing, use a mixture of clay and alumina hydrate to wad the bottoms, and fire them in a soda kiln to cone 10. 6 Rose Teapot, 6½ in. (16.5 cm) in height, porcelain, wheel-thrown, glaze-inlaid perforations, soda fired to cone 10, 2023.

Topics: Ceramic Artists, Handbuilding Techniques

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