A challenging piece... to be sure! In our yard, we have an enameled metal Kokapeli yard art (see above). The flat shape was the inspiration to trace the outline on a clay slab and the colors of the metal Kokapeli the inspiration to use a variety of glazes.
There were difficulties. As I worked on the piece, friendly comments offered by other members of the Pottery Center centered on the fragile nature of a flat clay piece so long and with such thin elements. Upon the suggestion of Ron (thanks!) I placed the wet clay on a kiln shelf so the piece could later be lowered into the kiln without risking breakage. Returning after the bisque fire, all was well.
Glazing was done at home with purchased glazes. Kokapeli utilized Lustrous Jade, Blue Rutile, Shino, Albany Slip Brown, and Oil Spot. Perhaps a few of the glazes were applied too thinly; this seems to be a theme to overcome. But in large, the piece is fabulous and now rests in our garden.
Here's the final result... compare to the top picture.
Name: Kokapeli
Size:
Date: July 2009
Clay: #112 Standard
Glaze: Multiple Amaco PC series
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