I took a lot of ceramics classes in college. It was a medium I particularly enjoyed, though I typically made hand-build pieces rather than wheel-thrown ones. I truly wish I had access to the facilities necessary to continue to work in ceramics, but those are few and far between, particularly since I prefer working with high-fired stoneware and gas-fired rather than electric kilns.

This piece is titled “Origin” and is one of the few wood-fired pieces I made. Wood-fired ceramics are typically not glazed before firing. Instead, the wood ash itself forms a glaze when it deposits on the piece during firing. Wood firing can be tricky and unpredictable, but the resulting look is quite unique. What I like about this piece is the contrast between the wood ash glaze on one side and the bare clay on the rest of the piece. I think it works well with the bowl’s highly textural surface and adds a lot to the earthy, organic feel I was trying to evoke. The piece reminds me of tree roots and growth and the resilience of nature.

Are there mediums you enjoy and but can’t currently work in? What new techniques would you like to try out?