I am happy to say this little guy has taken up residence in Columbia, SC. I always hope and have the intention to bring someone joy through my clay. It is how I relate to the world.

Here is a glimpse into a world of clay and creation—I wanted to post a series of pics start to finish of the glazing process. Here you see the kiln cooling down. It was fired two nights ago and this morning I peaked inside. I will show you the technique I use to make my functional ware along with my sculpture. It might be something you would like to use in your own ceramic work—or just plain curious about what’s coming out of this pretty little fire box. If you have any questions about anything on this blog feel free to contact me—I would be happy to go more in depth in the process, and hope to reveal more secrets I’ve got up my sleeve.

Skip over this if technical stuff bores you. For those of you who stuck around..The picture shows a kiln after a completed firing, or bisque—it is done at a relatively low temperature. Usually 1700-1950 degrees F. This is a slow process. The most number of accidents occur during this time—due to misfiring. If the temp in the kiln is taken too hot too fast it will cause explosion. Moisture can’t escape the clay fast enough. I usually candle my kiln (150-250 degrees F) at least six hours for sculpture to make sure all moisture has left the clay walls.

Now I have to get to work on glazing. I need more arms.

You can faintly see the markings that were inscribed into the once wet clay. I use a needle tool or exacto knife to create the lines.

my two dogs keep me company and are my muses!

character revealed!