$350.00
Amador Clay
12″ x 8″ x 7″
A coil method vase in Amador clay with a BTC-white glaze, fired twice at cone10. When it comes to pottery and sculpture in general, I enjoy texture and a look of surviving the elements over time. Perfect, pristine forms aren’t as interesting visually to me as something that looks more ancient or worn over time. This vase has a lot of textural interest and two of the handles are more worn than the others, suggesting use over time. Aquarius means “water bearer,” and the shape of this vase reminds me of the historical clay jugs used to carry water in many cultures around the world. Now we have hydroflasks and other modern water bottles. The sturdy handles on this vase would support usage as a water vessel, but it can also be used for decorative purposes with greenery or other arrangements.
This coiled vase has a worn aesthetic with two of the handles implying continuous use as a water carrying vessel. A smooth, glossy rim gives the appearance of a wet rim. Aquarius in the zodiac is a water-bearer symbol. My youngest son is born within this sign, and human history has a long trajectory of carrying water for survival. In modern society, we still carry water (in the form of water bottles) for hydration. Living in the desert has reminded me how vital water is as a resource to grow food and to sustain human life.
I use the term “pottery” instead of “ceramics,” to describe my work, as the term conjures handmade, more ancient methods of clay work rather than modern or more refined techniques. I want to celebrate the human touch on the clay, and as such, my pottery has an intentionality in the imperfections. Each piece of pottery is hand made, dried, fired, glazed, and re-fired at cone10, which is the hottest kiln. The glazes chosen are food-safe, and these pieces may be used in the oven, microwave, fridge or freezer safely.