Tuesday, March 16, 2010

Functioning Studio

Well on Friday I moved into the new studio. I love it! It still has the old paint on the basement walls, the studs are still showing. I have played with a couple different configurations and think i have settled on it. I been throwing some commission work for a person in Canada and then back to stocking the shelves. The snow is about 75% gone, the flood waters are rising so we are still hoping we can start firing in 2 weeks. Keep checking back I'll get pics posted once the pieces start coming out of the pits. I may post the studio, but I'll wait until i have the walls enclosed.

Friday, March 5, 2010

Updates...

Well, it been over a month, just a little to keep you informed of our progress. Our son's hockey is winding down, so now there is more time for clay! I have our new clay body done and have nearly gone through the 1st shipment. It is AWESOME!!! It throws great, takes abuse and torture of stretching it out, I have successfully saggar fired it, and raku'd it with no problems. I even took a piece at approx 1000 F, and threw it into the snowbank, and it survived no cracks. I cannot wait to get into the pasture to the pits. I have several other tests lined up including Cone 5-6 stoneware, salt firing, soda firing, and a wood firing. Can't wait to see the results.

We are also remodeling/creating a new studio. The wheel will be moved in the laundry area in our basement, since we moved the washer and dryer out last year. I will have water nearby, no more dripping slop all over the basement as I walk to the sink. I am adding a lot more shelves for drying and storage. and a new work counter. I am looking forward to the increase of space. Currently I only have room for about 10 pieces to dry on the bats, so I throw 10 and I am done for the day, or at least several hours.

I am also attempting to give lessons on the wheel. I have a couple a students starting in the next couple weeks and several others on a waiting list. So if you are interested shoot me an email. I will have more time ( i think) in the months to come. This summer I could be in the studio just about every night with a student or two.

We are also applying for shows for the summer, we are staying with 4-6 shows, about the same as last year, we will let you know when the details are finalized.