Lars' work is best recognized by his unique textural surfaces. We are often asked to explain the process that he uses as his technique is not a standard one used by many ceramists.
We love to talk about the process when we are out in the community but here we can SHOW you!
Please note: The photo examples we are using here are Lars' use of colored slips applied to the surface before stretching. Most of his work adds the color AFTER the first firing but for the purpose of showing the fracturing process here, the addition of color enhances the pictorial view of the fractures. In future posts, the more standard pieces will be used to show how the color is added.
Step one: Lars forms a cylindrical form on the potters wheel.
Step two: He then applies a layer of colored slip.
Step Three: He applies a thin layer of sodium silicate either by brushing it or spraying it on the surface. The cylinder is then force-dried with a heat gun.
Step Four: Lars then begins to expand the surface from the inside out without ever touching the outside surface again as this would disturb the fracturing about to happen on the outside!
This process is not done quickly as it might force the clay to expand too much, weakening the surface or even breaking through.
And a close up of the final surface:
In a future post, we will show the additional steps taken in the process to achieve the completed works.
For now, have a great day, stay warm (it was 4 degrees in York this morning!) and enjoy life! We know we will be happy in our studio nest getting our hands lusciously dirty in clay. Our best to you, Connie and Lars