The Clay Process

While working with clay there are many stages a piece will go through before it's complete (wet clay, leather hard, fired, & glazed). I have included photos of my artwork in different stages to share the process. I believe it's important to show how a project is formed from start to finish.

I usually begin projects with a quick sketch. I feel it's helpful to have an idea and focus even before touching the clay. I keep in mind different textures and glazes I plan to apply to finish the piece.

I look to many things for inspiration for projects. Sometimes I find it in everyday life. Seashells, toddler building blocks and wind mobiles have sparked ideas for some of my favorite projects. Other times, I take a less structured approach and let the clay lead the way!

Through each stage you get a glimpse of where the piece is going, but it isn't until the final stage that you can really appreciate what you have created. There is always an element of surprise when firing and glazing too. Although, working with clay can be time consuming and tedious, I believe the end result is usually worth the effort.