Initial design
Although every piece evolves its own character during the making process, each one starts on paper, with scribbles and sketches exploring the design, form and technical details.
Choosing the clay
The choice of clay is always informed by the design intentions. The grogs of different earthenware and porcelain clays produce very different textures and aesthetic results so clays are carefully selected with the design objectives for the finished piece in mind.
Throwing
For pots, bowls and other wheel-thrown pieces, it is the throwing stage that is the most significant part of the creative process, with the form of the piece essentially being drawn out of a formless lump of mud by the skilled hands of the potter.
drying
After throwing, the 'green' pieces are placed on drying shelves for up to three days, to allow the clay to dry out ahead of the turning stage.
turning
Turning involves another course on the wheel in the hands of the potter, who smoothes, incises, carves or shapes the piece. This is the last stage in which changes can be made to the actual form.
bisque firing
The first irreversible change to the clay takes place in the bisque firing. Pieces are fired slowly at 1000°C in an electric kiln.
glazing
The bisque-fired piece returns to the potter for glazing. This is a significant part of the creative process, requiring artisitc accuracy and a high degree of technical expertise in applying various glazes to evoke the intended chemical reactions in the final firing.
firing
The nature of the firing, including the temperature, duration, intensity and post-firing treatments, are determined by the design intentions. Various processes can induce complex and interesting chemical reactions to achieve the desired finishes.
delivery
The finished piece is cooled, cleaned and delivered into the hands of the art lover!