Trying to figure out how we were going to connect the two vases was probably the most difficult part. I had to build up both pots up to about 26 centimeters. Then I had to cut a perfect circle out of the sides of both of the pots. Easy thing to do with the little compass tool we have. I don’t think I can hand draw a perfect circle to save my life let alone 2 symmetrical ones. Anyways after they both have circles in their sides I rolled out a slab of clay and had to squeeze my hand in and the clay into the almost closed pots to connect the two together. After it was in place then I blended with a serrated rib, think of the edge of a serrated knife but in the shape of an oval that has been cut in half.
Once it was put together I had to make Nugget. Nugget had to go on the one side of the pot first; due to the fact that I would have to reach through the hole joining the pots and blend Nugget underneath into the inside of the pot to attach him.To make Nugget, he had to be hollow as well. So it was the pinching process I used for him with some coiling thrown in. Most of the front side of Nugget is coiled while his bottom is pinched into place. I started with the front part of Nugget’s body, followed by attaching, then cutting off and re-attaching his back side. Trying to get him the absolute correct size was near impossible due to the fact that the pictures I had to measure Nugget from where taken at an angle. So Nugget is a best guess when it comes to his length and truth be told he is probably a little long. But that is ok; I think he is cute none the less. I love Nugget’s big ears! They match his personality.
Well, after attaching Nugget the rest was history, just adding on the neck to the other vase. Overall I am extremely happy with the way it turned out. I think considering this is my first time coiling and making the piece hollow I did remarkably well. I am happy with it and as long as I like it that is all that matters! After all it will be sitting in my house right? Yes and I just realized that Nugget is on the wrong side of the pot! Ooops!
Now let’s hope it does not blow up in the kiln. Not likely to happen all the time but it does happen due to air bubbles in the clay that pull the water into it creating a pressure that can screw your piece up by going ka-ploo-ee! So I am hoping that I was able to apply enough pressure using the serrated rib to get rid of any air bubbles. Nugget protect your pot and be brave!
For the next part of the project, we have to design how the piece would look if a modern (1900 and up) artist were to design the piece. I am inspired by Barbra Hepworth. Take a look at some of her work. Just Google and up pops her stuff. Completely abstract and beautiful! I am totally inspired for this piece!
