Unique and inimitable
Every sculpture in this series is not just handmade but deeply personal and unmistakably one of a kind. Crafted with intention and care, each piece tells its own story, and together, they create a dialogue of character and emotion. I pour over every detail, allowing each sculpture to possess its own vibrant, distinct spirit. Like people, they carry unique traits and feelings, capturing your gaze and leaving a lasting impression. Each time you look, you’ll find something new—nuances that pull you back, again and again.
Crafted Through Precision and Patience
Each sculpture undergoes a series of intricate steps and multiple firings at a high temperature of 2260°F (1240°C) to achieve its final form. The process begins by carefully shaping the piece from clay. To maintain stability during drying and firing, the sculpture must be hollow, which increases complexity and demands skill in forming balanced walls. The drying phase is essential and takes up to a month, as rapid drying would cause cracks. During this time, moisture needs to evaporate gradually to avoid structural weaknesses.
Once the sculpture is fully dried, it undergoes its first firing, which hardens the clay into bisque—a state that’s durable but porous enough to accept glazes. After this firing, I apply several layers of glaze by hand, carefully blending colors to achieve the desired depth and texture. Each glaze layer reacts differently under high heat, creating unique finishes, but this also adds risk: the ceramic can crack or warp, which would mean beginning the entire process anew.
With every firing, there’s an inherent unpredictability, as temperature fluctuations and kiln atmosphere can affect the glaze’s final color and texture. The result is a piece that captures the complexities and beauty of the ceramic process—each sculpture a unique, unrepeatable creation that carries the artist's careful attention at every step.