1. What skills or techniques did you learn during this unit? How did you apply them in your work?
Working with clay yet again has reminded me how to create a flat surface with symmetry and detail all planned for as well. I learned a good technique for creating a unique and functional handle (see picture below). I also learned how to apply glazes without mixing them and creating chemical reactions. I also learned the importance of adding clay to clay by scoring and then adding a dollop of water to make it stick; I used this with the handle. I also learned how small details can add appeal to a piece; I added stenciling of letters to this mug, spelling "m-o-m".
2. How did you plan and create your artwork? Write about your process and your finished work. What do you like about your finished work? Is it successful?
My original planning for this mug came with the idea that we needed a mug in our household. From there I also realized my mom needed a homemade gift for Mother's Day (late I know). I then sketched out a simple mug with an interesting handle; unique but something I thought I could actually create (see picture below). I also thought about color choice. Since this would be a gift, I thought about colors my mom appreciated such as oranges and turquoise. I decided to find similar colors to make food safe glaze on the inside and most of the outside while adding a colorful flare of non food safe glaze with sparkles in the stenciling. As I write this, it is being fired again, but in general, while not perfect, I still think this will turn out great. Hopefully, my mom will love it.
Working with clay yet again has reminded me how to create a flat surface with symmetry and detail all planned for as well. I learned a good technique for creating a unique and functional handle (see picture below). I also learned how to apply glazes without mixing them and creating chemical reactions. I also learned the importance of adding clay to clay by scoring and then adding a dollop of water to make it stick; I used this with the handle. I also learned how small details can add appeal to a piece; I added stenciling of letters to this mug, spelling "m-o-m".
2. How did you plan and create your artwork? Write about your process and your finished work. What do you like about your finished work? Is it successful?
My original planning for this mug came with the idea that we needed a mug in our household. From there I also realized my mom needed a homemade gift for Mother's Day (late I know). I then sketched out a simple mug with an interesting handle; unique but something I thought I could actually create (see picture below). I also thought about color choice. Since this would be a gift, I thought about colors my mom appreciated such as oranges and turquoise. I decided to find similar colors to make food safe glaze on the inside and most of the outside while adding a colorful flare of non food safe glaze with sparkles in the stenciling. As I write this, it is being fired again, but in general, while not perfect, I still think this will turn out great. Hopefully, my mom will love it.