Lidded Jars

Artist Statement: 

For this project, we created a set of lidded jars that needed to embody unity and include a lid, handle, and foot. For this project, I decided to go with a plant theme. My room is filled with plants, so I wanted to create jars that could be used for descoartive pieces, or even to plant my succulents in. For my first jar, I flipped the lid of my jar to create a small "pot" to hold the clay succulent. For my second project, I made a cactus shaped jar with a small flower at the top. 

To construct these jars, I began by measuring the clay and then pinching two separate pots, which I joined together with slip using the scratch-and-score technique to create a sphere. Once I marked the placement for the lid, I carefully cut it out. To ensure the lid stayed in place, I rolled coils and attached them inside the jar’s rim as a seating edge. I applied the same scratch-and-score method for adding handles and feet. For the succulent, I shaped individual leaves and layered them to resemble a real plant. My cactus jar featured two arms that doubled as handles, and I added small indents and lines on both jars to add texture and pattern.

Throughout the project, I faced a few challenges and adjustments. Crafting realistic succulent leaves was difficult at first, so I took the piece home to compare it to real plants, eventually rounding and shortening the leaves. The cactus jar was also tricky, I had to restart the base several times to get the right shape and found that gently rolling the jar on the table helped elongate it.

Despite the challenges and the time commitment, I’m happy with how the project turned out. However, I realize I need to work on my time management and better use of class time, as transporting the jars back and forth from home isn’t ideal.