These vases were inspired by my wanderings in the Wicklow hills. The patterns are an expression of nature.
After colouring the textured stoneware body to a pale grey I make a straight column vase. While the stoneware is still semi soft I then work gentle bends & curves into the form. Letting the vessel dry to near leatherhard before applying a black slip to the surface of the vase. Once again I let the piece dry some more before etching the pattern into the surface.
The shape & form of the vase dictates the pattern & I try not to overthink the design, keeping a loose flowing hand with the knife. It is a balance on knowing how busy or quiet a piece will be.
After an initial firing I glaze the interior with a clear glaze.
Then it is fired in a high temperature firing of 1265 degrees where it becomes non porous. After the firings I sand the black exterior, so this smooth surface contrasts with the grogged stoneware.
These vases were inspired by my wanderings in the Wicklow hills. The patterns are an expression of nature.
After colouring the textured stoneware body to a pale grey I make a straight column vase. While the stoneware is still semi soft I then work gentle bends & curves into the form. Letting the vessel dry to near leatherhard before applying a black slip to the surface of the vase. Once again I let the piece dry some more before etching the pattern into the surface.
The shape & form of the vase dictates the pattern & I try not to overthink the design, keeping a loose flowing hand with the knife. It is a balance on knowing how busy or quiet a piece will be.
After an initial firing I glaze the interior with a clear glaze.
Then it is fired in a high temperature firing of 1265 degrees where it becomes non porous. After the firings I sand the black exterior, so this smooth surface contrasts with the grogged stoneware.
