Let the Beauty of what you Love be what you Do...
~Rumi

Tuesday, March 6, 2012

Where the Magic Happens...



In the kiln of course! This is a pic from loading the gas kiln last week~ note all our little test tiles from Glaze Calc Class.
:)


The test tiles above are all from the same base glaze (far left,) with various percentages of Alumina (stabilizer) added. It's interesting to see how little variations can totally change the effect of the glaze.


Everyone in class is testing different variations & percentages of colors, fluxes & stabilizers added to one of 3 favorite glaze bases that we formulated earlier in the semester. It's a lot of info to take in & talk about. We spent hours talking about the results.


Still working away in wheel throwing... filling up shelves. Thinking how taking 2 classes & working is a bit much...


generally feeling a bit behind & trying to get in the studio during my free time, though open studio hours conflict w/ my work schedule! The good news is, I'm gradually getting some things done & getting a little finished work back. Most of it was just testing glazes on the recycled clay that I'm using this semester. Some turned out just horrible! You don't get to see those~ but here are some results that I can live with.
:)




I splurged & got a sheet of background paper for photographing finished work. Surprisingly, I couldn't find it anywhere in town, but I did find it online- it was over 40 bucks w/ shipping! Also, finally got my good camera back, thank goodness! That was over 200 bucks- another unexpected expense! Such is life... you all know how that goes.
Well, gotta run... studying The Complete Guide to High Fire Glazes to pick a glaze to test on Wednesday & gotta get in the studio to do a bit of glazing for my wheel class before the next firing!
:)

9 comments:

Anonymous said...

Becky, the bowls are beautiful. I am usually more of a blue/green person, but that orange one does something for me.

Barb said...

Each so different and so individually lovely. You must be pleased with these results, Becky. I don't see giant bear anywhere though. Glad the camera is fixed.

clairz said...

With so many possible variations, it's no wonder you are fascinated by clay. Love that first bowl especially.

Pat said...

I never knew there was so much involved in pottery. I will appreciate it so much more when I see pots now! You are to be congratulated for sticking to this art and taking classes. Especially while working. The bowls are beautiful.

Kate said...

Working while going to school is pretty hectic, esp when your classes function well if you can get into the studio...that's difficult to do, too.

I admire your tenacity; hope the rest of the time during this semester (?) is productive for you. I, too, have a greater appreciation for pottery after viewing your work and the explanation of some of the techniques. Your bowls are great, Becky!

Randy said...

That first bowl is absolutely stunning. The process is so amazing. I do miss taking ceramics classes. One of these days I just might get back to it. After I trying Encaustics first. Those are some expensive classes. Have a great rest of your week.

Annie said...

Becky, I love those bowls, and the first one is my favorite, beautiful!
Glad you are having fun in glaze class, looks like you are learning a lot.
Somehow I missed your last post, the bear looks great! and I love that quote, it is so TRUE!!!
xoxo

Wanda..... said...

All three so different and lovely, Becky!

Randy said...

Hi there, were you at the school last night?