Oval Platters
Once in a while I like to shake things up a bit and do some handbuilding. It feels very different, yet still very connected to wheel throwing, which is what I normally do. It's also much slower which means a more contemplative attitude towards each piece, for me at least.
These platters are made by using an old (antique I think) aluminum serving platter as a slump mold. I was drawn to this piece as a mold because of the flower pattern that is embossed on the inside. That pattern is now on the bottom of my platters. To me pottery should look nice from all angles including the underside. Have you ever watched someone picking out a piece of pottery? They always look underneath, even if the price tag is very obviously somewhere else. They want to be certain the entire piece is as nice and as well made as the top.
After rolling out the slab and smoothing it into the mold I let the clay sit under plastic overnight to firm up a little. The next day I embossed the leaf pattern into the clay then brushed in some white slip. You can see the oak leaf still needs to be cleaned up. I'll do that today then let it dry enough to remove it from the mold. I'll then let it dry completely on a wire rack for even drying, this will help prevent warping. I'll show you the bottoms after they are fired.
These platters are made by using an old (antique I think) aluminum serving platter as a slump mold. I was drawn to this piece as a mold because of the flower pattern that is embossed on the inside. That pattern is now on the bottom of my platters. To me pottery should look nice from all angles including the underside. Have you ever watched someone picking out a piece of pottery? They always look underneath, even if the price tag is very obviously somewhere else. They want to be certain the entire piece is as nice and as well made as the top.
After rolling out the slab and smoothing it into the mold I let the clay sit under plastic overnight to firm up a little. The next day I embossed the leaf pattern into the clay then brushed in some white slip. You can see the oak leaf still needs to be cleaned up. I'll do that today then let it dry enough to remove it from the mold. I'll then let it dry completely on a wire rack for even drying, this will help prevent warping. I'll show you the bottoms after they are fired.
Those are very nice! I agree about bottoms of pots being important. I also like the idea of a surprise underneath, be it an embossed pattern or a variation in the glaze. Can't wait to see the undersides of these.
ReplyDeleteYes, Michèle, a surprise underneath is like finding a treasure.
DeleteI look forward! I love ginko, so I am drawn most especially to the first one!
ReplyDeleteThanks Tina, I appreciate the feedback about the ginko. It's a popular leaf.
DeleteHandbuilding is such a nice break from throwing every so often. And provides such different surface to work with as well. These look great.
ReplyDeleteThanks Sue, it's true, it changes your focus a bit too. Helps the creative thoughts arrive.
Deleteoh GOODness, YES, such sweet platters!
ReplyDelete