26 June 2023
I have a mild obsession with botanical ceramics, so much so I’m incorporating palm and floral motifs into my own work at my local studio. I’m experimenting with different techniques, most recently I used a laser cut palm pressed into clay to create a decorative tray with an irregular edge and olive glazed finish. I like this prototype so much I’m making more in a variety of colors to sell in my local shop.
While in the studio I’m learning how to carve patterns with sgraffito, use kiln safe overlays, and cutouts to embellish with clay leaves and flowers. Soon I’ll start practicing hand painting techniques. I’m working with denser earthenware and light clay bodies but my hope is to create using porcelain too.
While it’s necessary to have functional plates and bowls for daily dining, it’s so lovely to have pretty platters or vessels for serving too. Botanical motifs always bring me joy, below are a few favorites.