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Pottery by Bill Karaffa
Done using the Sgraffito technique and covered with a transparent Celadon-type glaze, this group of pieces is reminiscent of Chinese pottery first created during the T’ang and Sung dynasties. Thrown using a stoneware clay body, the areas that will be decorated are covered with a thin layer of porcelain. Carving through the porcelain reveals the darker underlying clay. The depth of cut will influence the hue of the glaze. This allows me a greater control of the tonal range. This technique, in combination with the Northwoods subject matter, has allowed me to pursue my interest in landscape drawing.
The wildflower group is a personal interpretation with reference to three differing artistic styles and techniques; Italian majolica pottery, German and American salt glazed pottery, and Oriental brush painting.
The pieces are first covered with a coat of raw clear glaze, which functions as the ground for the brush painting. Accomplished with different glazes and oxides, the wildflower image is not a literal depiction of a particular species, but rather the result of the combination of marks naturally created by the different brushes used.
The wood ash glazed pieces allude to the first glazes used by potters. Incorporating ash from the studio woodstove, this glaze can exhibit classic wood ash textures or a soft buttery finish, depending on the amount of ash used and the thickness of the glaze application. Used in combination with metallic oxide washes applied over the raw glaze, unique patterns of color and texture can also be achieved as the glass melts.
This decorative approach, which highlights the interplay of different types and thickness' of glass during the melt, involves the use of multiple overlaps of anywhere from three to six different glazes. The transitional areas where two or more different glazes interact and combine provide additional sections of interest for me. The glass melt is further influenced by the use of supplementary washes of metallic oxides, which influence the color and fluidity of the glaze.
For information about prices or availability call : 715-385-2889 (studio)
715-385-2810 (Gallery)
or follow the "mailto" link below
HOME CURRENT or UPCOMING SHOWS
mailto:bkaraffa@centurytel.net