Studio Work 10/27

 

Personalized paper clip holder 

Tiny things holder: gift for teacher friend

Gift for teacher friend 

All

Bisqueware

 

Mug set (wheel)

Jewelry Dishes 

All Pieces 

Miscellaneous cylinders 

Hand built mug set 

Bowls 

The Importance of Ceramics : MET Summary

     I read an article titled, The Importance of Ceramics from the MET. This discussed ceramics in the pre-Islamic period. At the beginning of this period, ceramics were only used for utilitarian purposes (storing water and food, transporting goods, cooking) (par.1). Over time, ceramics became more appealing as luxury products (par.1).This is thought to be because Muslim men were prohibited from using gold vessels (par.1).  

    The article also includes information on Chinese stoneware and connects it to the Near East. The Chinese vessels are described as “elegant and durable”, as they were made mainly of porcelain (par.2).  Porcelain needs to be fired at an “extremely high temperature” (par.2). These materials were not available in the Near East, however; people wanted to imitate the look of Chinese poetry. The article mentions,  “Iraqi potters invented ways to imitate the smooth white surface of Chinese ceramics” (par.2). They did this by covering their local clay with white slip. They then decorated it with designs in blue to emulate Chinese porcelain (par.2).

     I find it very interesting to see different parts of the world emulating work from other areas. It shows that we are connected as people and artists. It is also proof that people draw inspiration from others. It is important to understand different cultures and see how ceramics relates to different areas around the world.

Here is an example of a pen rest made by a Muslin patron living in China.

Fig. 48. Brush rest with Arabic inscription, early 16th century. China, Ming dynasty (1368–1644). Porcelain painted with cobalt blue under transparent glaze (Jingdezhen ware); L. 8 3/4 in. (22.2 cm). The Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York, Rogers Fund, 1918 (18.56.14)

Source:

https://www.metmuseum.org/learn/educators/curriculum-resources/art-of-the-islamic-world/unit-seven/chapter-one/the-importance-of-ceramics#

Making a Teapot Video

 

This week I started making a miniature tea set for my little cousin. I made 5 cups, a creamer, and I would love to make a teapot. This seems to be very challenging. I like that this video shows how to throw each part of the teapot. In this video, the person makes one large hole for the spout. However, I typically see people making many small holes. I think I will make many small holes. I am going to attempt this on Tuesday in the studio.

Studio Work 10/20

 

Some interesting forms. 

This is a mini tea set for my little cousin! 

Pablo Picasso: Ceramic Vessels

 

Pablo Picasso: Ceramic Vessels

    I am mostly familiar with Pablo Picasso's cubist paintings. However, I came across some of his ceramics. I was surprised to find these. After taking three art history courses, I did not know that Picasso created ceramic vessels! These are very interesting forms. One of the vases above is hand painted with an eye. This is my favorite. It feels very surrealist. Eyes typically make me think of surrealism. There is also a bright color pattern occurring highlighting blue and orange (complementary colors). 

    After researching these pieces I have learned that Picasso began working with clay from 1946 to 1973 when he passed away (par.2). He began working with clay because "it was less demanding than painting" (par.3). This is because with clay, he could work in a smaller scale (par.3). In the article, I found that Picasso produced over 3,500 ceramic works, mainly in Madoura (par.3). As you can see, he was inspired by animals and faces. The works listed above reflect this (owl, face, vase with human features-eyes). He was inspired by everything from "owls and goats to Greek mythology and bullfighting"(par.5). 

Resource:

https://www.sothebys.com/en/articles/picasso-ceramics-7-things-you-need-to-know

Studio Work 10/13

 

Today, I trimmed two miniature bowls from last week. I also was able to throw five little decorative pieces and two creamers. 

"Drippy Slip Mugs" Video

 

I found this very nifty video. It depicts the process of creating a "drippy slip mug" from start to finish. The potter uses many different high tech tools. However, I think this could be made without many of the gadgets he uses. I found these to be very unique, corky, fun, and pleasing to the eye. I would love to experiment with something like this, especially around Halloween time. It is elegant, but could also be spooky. It was interesting to see him trim clay from the top and sides of the vessel as well. 

Interesting Find in Chester, CT

 I found myself on a walk in the theatre district of Chester, CT yesterday. There was a table set up from a little art shop that sold work from local artists. There were many interesting ceramic pieces from the same potter. Here is an image of a soap dispenser. I love the detailing on the dispenser. The carved pattern is so precise. As you can see, the artists signature is on the bottom! 

Studio Work 10/6

 

Research 10/2/2020

 Summary of " The Ancient Greece-Inspired Artist Breathing New Life into Found Ceramics"