Impressions of Fall
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Pit fired ceramics, pine needle basketry, drift wood, devil’s claw and hand spun wool yarn
Approx. size – 25″ x 24″ x 11 1/2″ tall
This particular ceramic base was one of several fired early in 2011. Pit firing is unpredictable. Numerous bases are fired together, all being exposed the same chemicals, but because of the technique of wood firing in a pit, other factors such as heat and oxygen can render two pots completely different, even if they sit side by side. This base emerged with colors unlike those of its neighbors, with rich grays, rusts, yellows and even pinks while the bottom remained relatively white with only smoke markings here and there. Pit firing is magical. Some ceramics come through with spectacular colorings, like this one, while others appear to have never been touched by chemicals or flames. It is the surprise of the process that so enthralls me. Detailed notes of placement, chemicals, air temperature and humidity make little difference in attempting to duplicate a good firing. Its like a communion with earth. I give over my gifts to the fire and and I am blessed to receive them back with earth’s artistic additions.
The basketry portion of this sculpture was a new direction for me as well. It is actually a double basket, one encircling another. As an artist, I constantly challenge myself and my medium to keep it fresh and new. I enjoy, that to date, I have yet to find any boundaries with pine needle weaving.
“Fall Impressions” brings together the colors of fall, with leaves gently impressed into the clay, giving the feeling of leaves that have fallen to the earthen floor. Tucked along the edge is a beautiful piece of driftwood saved from the summer monsoons cradled with the dry, skeletal remains of devil’s claw. Swirling above the ceramic base are pine needle strands which circle and twist like the fall winds that free the trees of their leafy burdens.
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