Julie Peck

This was built with large coils and then carved. The carving melds the surface design and the form so they are integral to each other. The large handles extend the carving and envelop the space within. The sculpture references a basket, but also a landscape to explore, inside and out.

I like to alter my form with pattern. I begin by drawing on the thick walls of my pieces and then, while still soft, carve and stretch the clay following the lines. This process is like a dance with the clay, carving away from one side and adding back to another. I use a serrated metal rib to stretch the clay up and out. I am blending the surface design into the form, meshing the 2-D and 3-D. As the piece transforms, I will reassess, adding new lines, altering the rim and base until I feel the piece is complete.

I like to alter my form with pattern. I begin by drawing on the thick walls of my pieces and then, while still soft, carve and stretch the clay following the lines. This process is like a dance with the clay, carving away from one side and adding back to another. I use a serrated metal rib to stretch the clay up and out. I am blending the surface design into the form, meshing the 2-D and 3-D. As the piece transforms, I will reassess, adding new lines, altering the rim and base until I feel the piece is complete.

I have used a new design to define the shape of this bowl, when carving it. The energy of the lines, as they move around the bowl, is exciting to me. I am experimenting with similar patterning on a variety of other forms in my studio now.