Thank you for inviting me to share a little about myself and my work on the LMAJ blog.
I've always loved making things and have experimented with a variety of materials and techniques ranging from crochet, sewing, knitting, painting, metalsmithing, stained glass, and ceramics.
Beading and ceramic bead making is a relatively new venture for me, however I have quite a long relationship with clay. An elective course in ceramics spirited me away from a painting major and I've never looked back.
I think clay is one of the loveliest materials, there is no end to the things you can make with it,and it readily accepts the mark of your hand, something I find especially beautiful.
My beads and pendants are created from a variety of clay bodies,earthenware ,stoneware and sometimes raku, which are quick bisque fired, in little Skutt kilns. The clay pieces are then glazed with a layered Majolica type technique and returned to the kiln for the final firing.
Most of my past ceramic work would fall into the sculpture category and I think that carries over to my clay jewelry components, as well.
Bisqueware
Glazed
I've often described my work as possessing a Wabi Sabi quality, though I'm not certain if that is exactly correct, perhaps it's more about embracing spontaneity, not over thinking the piece. I try to feel what the pendant wants rather than having a mapped out plan, and if things turn out a little wonkie, it's ok.
There is something very delightful about the imperfect. An unexpected, irregularity excites the eye and compels you to look closer. Imperfection holds a little bit of magic, and I hope I can bring some of that magic into my little wearable works of art.
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5 comments:
i really do love your work nan... thank you for explaining where the sculptural quality derives from - and for a peek inside your process... a painting major, hmmm? you apply that sensibility to your work all of the time!
As you know, I am a little partial to ceramic beads :o) Thanks for sharing. I, too, create with little planning. I've tried to plan and it just doesn't seem to work out for me. You've motivated me to try to get back into it after taking some time off.
MaryAnn
I love your beads Nan!
Nan, you've been one of my favorites for a long time now. Your work never ceases to amaze and delight me. Keep up the good work as I know it is a source of delight to you.
oooh!!!!! Since I've had the ceramic bug so bad lately, I'm loving your post! Thanks for joining us!!! ... and I think I have a little kiln envy!! ;)
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