Sculpted Organics from the Sea - Decorative "Seashells"
I generally sculpt irregular shapes, attempting to create pieces that look natural, flowing and soft edged. Geometric forms, which I avoid, often produce symmetrical patterns, and at times, convey a sense of chaos, anger or rigidity. However, geometric shapes may be used to create abstract interpretations of things that would normally be depicted as organic in appearance. My "conch seashells" are made from various types of sculpting clay and are fired an average of three times, initially to "cone" 6, (2232 degrees F), giving great strength and durability to the work. Each "shell" is completed with a combination of, from mat to high gloss glazes, many with "lichen," crawl glazes, or "moss-like" substances, enhancing the "organic" effect. Their sizes range from approximately 15 x 12 x 12 inches, down to 7 x 5 x 5 inches, although the average is closer to 12 x 10 x 10 inches. Please left click to enlarge photos.