10 / Strange Clay

10/12/22

During the ‘Strange Clay’ Exhibition at the Hayward Gallery, I discovered the work of Brie Ruais. Her pieces really stood out to me out of all the works showcased there. The rugged yet intricate details of the huge shards drew me in and I was reminded of how much glazes can transform ceramics.

I love that the clay is torn and imperfect – you can clearly see the cracks where the clay has been torn/cut/broken and placed back together to create the piece.This is a really interesting idea to me as she hasn’t let the kiln limit the size of her work.The layering of the different glazes also creates unique colours and textures that seem to melt into a whole.

So back in the studios I spent time looking over glaze recipes and creating my own.

As this was my first attempt I decided to paint it over my key escutcheon that had just been fired and a new small tile which I attached torn bits of clay to in the style of Brie Ruais.

If I’m happy with the glaze and it’s a success then I’m planning to use it on a bigger ceramic piece I’m planning with the same torn effect.

Another artist I was inspired by during the exhibition was Klara Kristolova – not especially by the ceramic pieces themselves but how she had created a woodland world for them to be immersed in. Using dried branches and foliage really stimulates the senses and brought the piece to life, so I’m planning on foraging/drying foliage to incorporate into my work.