But with this obstacle in mind I arranged two independent study classes at USC so that I could work at a faster pace early in the semester and take off the last month. My proposals for my two independent study classes, in ceramics and printmaking, centered around themes of African Art. At least initially.
Ceramics
In ceramics I began by researching and studying the forms of traditional African pots. And the best way to learn the language of such form is to replicate! And so I have. Here are a few pieces that I'm particularly proud of. This is a red claybody, but still higher fire (Cone 6-10). These pieces are not glazed, but washed with iron oxide, and fired to cone 10. I wanted a finish that accented the textures and gave the pots this dry, primitive look. I'm going to throw a couple of these into the soda kiln next week and see what that atmosphere does to this clay body.
In ceramics I began by researching and studying the forms of traditional African pots. And the best way to learn the language of such form is to replicate! And so I have. Here are a few pieces that I'm particularly proud of. This is a red claybody, but still higher fire (Cone 6-10). These pieces are not glazed, but washed with iron oxide, and fired to cone 10. I wanted a finish that accented the textures and gave the pots this dry, primitive look. I'm going to throw a couple of these into the soda kiln next week and see what that atmosphere does to this clay body.
What I love about these pieces are the completely round bottoms they have, like they are floating on the surface which they stand.
It is worth noting that traditional african pots are quite different... they are hand build and they use low-fire clay (earthenware).
Printmaking on Textiles
Originally this was the idea and in my mind I saw my product looking much more like an african textile. But I really took this another direction completely and I'm excited about the way this will turn out.
First I began by exploring new materials. Instead of using oil based ink and woodcuts, I opted for a screenprinting ink, which is water based, because it is designed for fabrics. All that is needed is to heat set the print once it is transfered. Then instead of wood for my design I found this nice rubber material that is used to make your own stamps.
I initially wanted to create a design that could be replicated, creating a printed textile to be used for bags or clothing, ect. But I got bored with that idea pretty quickly. And something in my mind said 'Quilts'. I could use the same replicated patterns, but the pieces would look completely different depending on what it was printed on and which color ink I chose. Bingo! So, without hesitation I began making a quilt (which I've never done before), and I have to say I'm pretty excited with the way it is turning out. Mostly because it surprise me... color is relative and reactive, and this process has proved that to me many times over.
The quilt is a homage to daffodils because they are my favorite and they remind me of grammy and catholic school and Louisiana.
Much more on this project once I have the completed product!
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