Kathleen Cook Pottery: Pottery

		Introduction

		Artistic Approach

		New Designs

		Mugs

		Plates

		Casseroles

		Canisters

		Serving Bowls

		Platters

		Flower Vases

		Teapots

		Small Items

Artistic Approach

Platter

Philosophy

For me, functional pottery revolves around three concepts: personality, feel, and use. Marrying the expressiveness, gesture, and luscious properties of the clay to the functional and utilitarian aspect of everyday use both intrigues and challenges me. Color, fluid Asian-inspired brush strokes, design, and the element of "play" all dictate my approach to my work.

Surface design and color play is a major focal point. I envision each "window" or panel of color as a view into a microscope, catching a portion of activity and pattern that exists in some reality unseen to our human eyes. Various microorganisms, biological specimens, and patterns in nature inspire the images I use. Houses, eyes, stars, and rockets also further the theme of the imaginary realms. The "windows" are then contrasted and framed by the earthly rutile satin matte glaze. The contrast in surface and texture brings depth to the pots, thus continuing to embellish our peek into a new microscopic world.

Technical Approach

I use a cone 6 porcelain clay body and fire it in an electric kiln. The clay "matures" and reaches its highest firing ability at 2195 degrees Fahrenheit. I throw all of my pots on a wheel and alter them. I make all of my glazes and use commercial underglazes for the bright colors. All of the glazes are brushed on, and I actually apply the underglazes with my fingers. I consider my pottery to be very decorative. The glazing process is an intensive one, the process of layering the glazes and creating the images can take time. Every design is approached spontaneously but with conviction and with a great sense of fun! Each piece is nontoxic and microwave, dishwasher, and oven safe.