Leaf Bowl I

The first pottery class at the Opelika's Armory Arts Center (Pottery Arts) was an eye-opener. I expected to have a small lump of clay placed in my hands and to press out a pinch pot... but instead we were directed to the slab roller and moments later I was rolling out the impression of some huge leaf into Standard #112. A week later, I was sanding down some rough edges of a slumped leaf bowl, and the following week (after bisque firing) I was ready to learn about glazing. Another amazing experience. Glazes, as I found out, are NOT paints, and although the glaze was brush applied, it didn't flow or behave like paint. The leaf impression was first painted with Spanish Iron Oxide, mostly washed off, and then three coats of Peridot Green. Another week, and there it was, sitting on a table next to the kilns... my first creation. And surprise, it was remarkably attractive.


Leaf Bowl I
Date: July 2009
Size: 10 x 12 x 3
Clay: #112 Standard
Glaze: Spanish Iron Oxide under Peridot Green