This series presents my research on different ceramic chemicals and the reactions they have with one another in the kiln. These chemical studies visually express the multitude of ways that a single chemical can be affected by the other contents in a glaze. Current works include A Study in Cobalt and A Study in Chrome. These chemical studies allow me to educate and share glaze research in a way that is tactile and visually captivating.
A Study in Cobalt, 2021
Cobalt Carbonate
Each of these glaze tiles shows how the material Cobalt Carbonate reacts to alter a glaze outcome. From the subtle pink and purple speckling of glazes with high Magnesium and low Alumina levels, to the deep blues in glazes without Zinc or Barium, to the greens found when Cobalt reacts with Titanium.
0.5% Cobalt, 3% Talc
1% Cobalt, 2% Copper
1% Cobalt, 2% Lithium
1% Cobalt, 2% Rutile, 3% Titanium
6% Cobalt, 2% Cryolite, 1% Manganese
I find that the process of research is just as valuble as the results of that research. Rather than using research and analysis to meet an ends, it can be used to inform and inspire further art.
A Study In Chrome, 2021
Chromium Carbonate
“A Study in Chrome” analyzes the multitude of ways that Chromium Carbonate can be used to alter the color a single glaze can produce. Adding as little as 0.01 grams of chrome to a base with tin can create turn a white glaze into a vibrant red, or in a high alkaline glaze or in addition to Zirconium, Chrome is able to create deep greens. These reactions and hundreds of others are displayed in this work as both a piece of art and an educational tool.
0.25% Chrome, 5% Tin, Fired in Reduction
0.5% Chrome, 5% Tin
1% Chrome, 5% Tin, 5% Whiting
0.25% Chrome