Several years ago, I hand built several Shoji Hamada-inspired ceramic bottles but the result was not satisfying: it was difficult to construct the curved forms.
Now I have used press molds to make the main shapes. The bottle tops are then added using components made from smaller molds. The fish and raven figures are painted on bisque ware using a Jet Black (Amaco) or a Kings Blue (Mayco) underglaze. Finally, a cone 6 glaze (5/20) is used in an oxidation firing. The tallest one is 10″ tall.
Nice write-up, Charlie. You are rightfully proud of these latest pieces. I know that the process was not easy but building the press molds was clearly the way to go. Your must save your favorite–I already have mine. Great to have some that don’t end up destroyed!
What a beautiful outcome. These are so elegant and serene. Well done!
Painting is comparatively easy. And depending on what your objective is, any room can be a studio as you have demonstrated.