Mar

5

2019

Joseph Pelka

The inspiration behind my work stems from the desire to take something from the earth and create vessels that will be valued from generation to generation. The infinite variety of forms and designs that can be achieved with clay is why I choose to work with this medium. Clay also provides a hands-on connection to the art form. Your hands are used as tools more than in any other medium. I have always appreciated and been fascinated with nature and therefore incorporate it into many of my designs.To create my pieces, I use hand-building and wheel-thrown techniques both separately and in combinations. Quality craftsmanship is of vital concern with each vessel. Each piece is hand-crafted individually and no pieces are ever slipcast. I’ve chosen to work with an earthenware clay body that I fire to cone 06, 1818 degrees. Once constructed, careful attention is paid to the decoration process. The majority of my vessels are meticulously decorated on the exterior with brushed-on, layered ceramic glazes. A colored glaze is then poured into the interior to complete the piece. My designs are original. I am the designer, the builder and the decorator.Working with clay has been a part of my life for twenty-five years. My relationship with clay is dynamic, providing endless rewards as well as many challenges. This medium, with its ability to adapt to a wide variety of forms, creates a work environment of inspiration and surprise.

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