Process
Many years ago when I first started studying ceramics at NSCAD University, I was drawn to throwing on the wheel. For the first little while, I thought I would be a production potter. But as I continued my studies, I was eventually introduced to the technique of mold making and slip casting and I was hooked. For many years, I used it to produce large scale installations, but upon returning to Nova Scotia and setting up a pottery studio, I turned this skill into making molds for functional mid-range porcelain ware. In my studio I design new work using a variety of techniques.
For some pieces, I have carved asymmetrical forms using a softer plaster compound. Sometimes, I use the wonderful ability of molds to cast found objects. I find it a playful thing to cast ceramic forms normally found in other materials. However, in recent years, I have begun to turn plaster using my trusty old pottery wheel. In about the 10 minutes I have before my plaster sets and becomes too hard, I quickly carve out the form I want, using sharp trimming tools and sandpaper. I begin with a paper template, figuring out proportions, dimensions and form. With this pinned up in front of me, I use it as a visual guide while I carve the plaster. From these positives I make molds. Using a clay recipe that I have worked on and developed over many years, I mix a cone 6 semi- porcelain casting slip using raw ingredients and with that clay, I pull clay positives from my molds.
Over the years, I have developed a variety of glazes to use, developing colours and surface through extensive glaze testing and taking inspiration from the rich colours I find in my gardens and natural surroundings. For my ceramic Floral Collection, I hand draw all the flowers and use underglazes to create colourful juicy surfaces. Ultimately, I take great care in creating each piece. I design these objects to be not only visually pleasurable, but to also bring you joy while you use them. I hope you enjoy them as much as I enjoy making them.