I roll, cut and shape the slices to a beginning size then lay them over tubes to stiffen up enough to stand by themselves. I like working with the softest slabs I can so they still have movement and life.
I have to build them fairly quickly using a thick slip of Southern Ice.
They are immediately moved to a drying rack where they are covered with a sheet of paper and two layers of plastic. I want them to dry as slowly as possible and since it is winter I have to slow down the effects of a heated studio.
Here are an image of a finished piece, fired to Cone 9 oxidation using controlled cooling.
As these pieces dry, I started to work on a new pattern.
For more options and information on coloring clay, look at the WORKSHOP pages of my site to find a class near you. If there isn't one, consider recommending my workshops to an Arts Center in your area.workshop area.
