In the course of this year at Staffs uni, I have gotten the chance to explore and play with many different sides of clay, and coming into the final project I am exploring the methods and techniques that inspired me the most; 3D printing with clay and handbuilding with coils. I want to experiment with and explore the relationship of analogue coiling versus digital coiling, or 3D printing; taking elements from each technique and using them to influence the other, potentially merging them into the same piece.Taking inspiration from classic ceramic forms, I am creating patterns and distorting the forms digitally before then printing them in clay. I started by looking at iconic shapes from Wedgwood, and found myself drawn to forms with more bulbous shapes, that tapered at the ends. I used these characteristics to sketch some forms, as well as some patterns for the surface.
I then digitally sketched them with Rhino, and added the patterns to the surface, combining different patterns for more visual interest. I see so much personality in the forms, and they evoke a human element at times, with elements that look like spines, and the double bellied ones that have that have a distinct feminine feel. I want these forms to have personality, and to communicate with other forms in the space and with the viewer. At the end of the day, I want to have fun making work, and I want that to translate into the viewing of that work. You can always look and find deeper meaning in art, and create more meaning by relating it to a personal memory; but I personally look to making and viewing art as an escape from the stresses of everyday life, and that (I hope) translates into my work.
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