ASYMMETRY IS KEY

PINCH VASE FORMS

CERAMICS I

clay, glazes, staining oxides

After learning how to make a pinch pot in in the beginning clay class,

we take it one step further and make an enclosed asymmetrical form

by putting two pinch bowls together and paddling them into a pleasing form to the eye.

I do ask them to try for asymmetry because many of them have never tried that before,

and they find it quite appealing.

I'm also requiring added surface design.

This one by junior Sara Ryave was one of my favorites because of the bulbous form,

the beautifully incised designs,

and the way she finished it with colored oxide staining.

I also really liked this next one by junior Dustine Ansiboy

because of that flattened side with the texture showing thru the glaze,

 as well as the way the Rutile Oxide looks over top our Tan glaze.

And this one was so unique in it's form and glazing 

to make it a standout by senior Augustine Lee. 

My eye also really enjoyed this one by junior Lina Kim because she has captured a lot of movement

by pressing the edge of the paddle into the clay's surface 

creating a cocoon looking vase.

I also look at it and see a pregnant Middle Eastern garbed woman.

I'm wondering if Dustine used that as her inspiration.

This can be a fast-paced  & fun technique,

so several of the kids made a couple.

Here are Lina & Dustine again with their extra credit pieces.

The opening for the vase had to be asymmetrically positioned as well,

and required an organic opening;

ripping, folding over, etc.

We end with junior Richard Montes' gently undulating stamped form.

And don't you just love that bit of glaze snaking over the top rim?

I hadn't done this assignment for quite some time so it was really great to bring it back

and see the marvelous works these kids came up with.