The Process of Working With Clay

Terracotta clay is a material that I love to work with. When I get a fresh block of clay, I first roll it through the slab roller so that I am able to get it flat and even. From the slab roller, I am able to create what comes into my mind, such as a vase or freeform vessel. After I have finished creating the vessel, it has to dry for many days until it can be fired in the kiln. In the kiln, the vessel is introduced to very high temperatures and undergoes chemical changes so that water will no longer affect its stability. After the kiln, I am able to use different glazes to create a variety of colors and designs. Once the glaze drys, it is time for the kiln again.  After a few more hours in the kiln, the block of clay made a few days ago is now a final piece ready for its final purpose: either function or display