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Rosella Schembri |
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I work in high-fired stoneware (1280°C), do reduction firings, and occasionally, oxidation and wood firings. I am also experimenting with pit firings. I moved to Essex in January 2007 and I guess it’s time to take stock and plan this year’s ‘fun time in ceramics’. In February 2007 I registered the for the City & Guilds Level 3 ceramics course. The course is part-time, lasts two years and mainly consists of practical exercises which demonstrate that one has a grasp of the various techniques in the making/glazing of ceramics; shorts write-ups and photos of work in progress and completed works. I have also joined the Anglian Potters Association (www.anglianpotters.org.uk) which has over 250 members (all mad potters!!!). The association organises events, selling exhibitions, and the annual highlight – POTTERS CAMP. I am sure that if H&S got wind of it…… but it is held at a back-of-beyond site where you would only meet potters (and pyromaniacs). |
raku fired pot |
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A Potters camp is organised over 5 days. Six ‘normal’ kilns are in operation and in 2007 an Anglo-Saxon kiln was built and fired. We even put raw pieces in the ‘bonfire’. Each of the participants brings along a small number of bisque pieces which will be put into a number of kilns: raku/sawdust firing/reduction/salt glaze/soda glaze/big wood fired. Glazing/making takes up most of the first 2 days and firings take place over the next 3 days. Kilns are opened and numerous discussions evolve, with everyone chipping in with their personal experiences. I have gathered great insight, knowledge, anecdotes, history, funny and sad stories at this event. The most treasured is the new friendships and contacts made. I look forward to the one scheduled in August 2008. |
On a personal basis, I am now the proud owner of a second hand wheel (with all its idiosyncracies), a brand new electric kiln and, more recently, a small compressor for spraying on glazes. I work in the one-car garage which is at the back of the house. This area is very damp (especially when it rains – the roof leaks!!) and cold, which is good for the clay – but does not do much for my ageing bones! The drying process gets done in one of the spare rooms inside the house. Plans for 2008 are: finishing the City & Guilds Level 3 ceramics course and hopefully getting the certificate; participating in a Jim Robison “Building and decorating” week-long course; applying for associate membership with the Craft Potters Association (CPA); and attending as many ceramic events as possible. Another key goal is to find the best platform for me to sell my work. The rest of the time I will just have to slave away at my job with the county council to support my ceramics exploits!!! . |
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click on a picture to enlarge
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