Marlene Miller

My work has been developing in an increasingly personal direction the past several years. As I explore new directions and forms, I am simultaneously moving toward a more free, expressive and intuitive mode of execution – allowing the natural qualities of the clay and mark making from my own hand to shine through.

I start each piece by making a mound of solid clay, paddling the form into a general shape, then take suggestions from the clay and tool marks. Sculptures frequently change drastically in the course of their birthing process – I search the clay until I find a figure and expression that speaks to me on a profound level. Once the figure is complete, I hollow out the form, then allow the piece to dry before firing.

I use an unusual clay body containing sawdust and perlite, which when dragged through the surface using a tool or scraper and after burning out in the firing, leaves a highly textured surface. I use commercial underglazes and overglazes, as well as ceramic stains to achieve a layering of coloring, not unlike intaglio printmaking. I fire my sculpture in reduction to stoneware temperatures and fire pieces many times to achieve the desired surface and color.