Wood & Soda Fired
Wood & soda fired pieces are characterized by warm & earthy tones, glassy surfaces similar in feeling to slightly coarse stone.
The unique variegated surface is developed by the interaction of wood ash and sodium vapors at temperatures exceeding 2300 degrees Fahrenheit.
Sodium vapor is derived by vaporizing sodium carbonate or baking soda in the firebox of the kiln. This vapor acts a flux, reacting with the silica and alumina found in clay to form a glass where they combine.
Wood ash acts in a similar manner, although it brings along trace elements from the soil where the tree once grew. These trace elements can shift the color response, often forming green/ yellow/ brown glass rivulets.
By combining wood & soda firing, which are often performed individually as their own firing style, I'm able to produce a nice blend of qualities from both techniques.
Carving & Sculpting
Carving is exactly as it sounds, using sharp tools, clay is removed from the surface before completely drying, to create patterns and give dimension. This process is the opposite of slip trailing, which adds material, however for many pieces I employ both methods to create surfaces with even more depth.
I enjoy sculpting eyes, lips, and other facial features into some of my work to give them a sort of lively, conscious quality. I feel as though it can make the pieces "come alive" and create a deeper connection to the piece.
