I work within the vessel tradition because it is a format that is both accessible and intimate. We can relate to functional forms on may levels, not just intellectually but physically, our bodies remember interaction with another teapot, pitcher, or cup. Fond memories of the role that certain objects played in my life inspire me to bring back tradition, ritual, and sacredness to what have become commonplace events. I do this by focusing on forms that are used on special occasions, when a meal can stretch over many hours. These are events during which we take the time to celebrate life and our most basic needs, food, and the connection with other people. A handmade ceramic piece can enhance the ritual of a meal because it has a soul: if not a soul of its own then a small piece of mine which remains in the piece.

Technical Description

I make my pieces using both casting and handbuilding techniques. The basic shape is cast in cone 5 porcelain and then the leaves are individually cast and attached to the main form. I also use slip and carving techniques to apply texture to the surface. Features such a lids and handles are usually handbuilt.

The piece is glazed and fired to cone 5. Then I use china paints to get the colors I desire, and to highlight the veins in the leaves, and it is refired to cone 018 several times.