So, here it is - the big green reveal we've all been waiting for (when I say "we" I mean me:). I've got to admit, there's always a sense of excitement that comes over me when I finally open the kiln after a glaze firing. It's like witnessing a dramatic transformation where a piece truly comes into its own, finding its unique character and identity.
This time, though, there was an added layer of anticipation. First, the kiln was loaded up with greenware glazed pieces. Second, I decided to venture into the unknown by using a mystery glaze concoction derived from the residue left in a water bucket where brushes had been cleaned over time. This intriguing glaze was applied to the outer surfaces of the pieces, while a separate liner glaze was used for the inside.
My main concern was the possibility of encountering pinholes, cracks and crazing, those notorious challenges in ceramics. But the moment of truth arrived, and guess what? The results were surprisingly satisfying. Upon closer inspection, the outcome of this single firing technique was rather intriguing. The glaze appeared to take on a more transluscent appearance, and because of my free flowing application approach, the brush strokes seemed to introduce a sense of movement and fluidity to the pieces. The overlapping of the glazes also added an unexpected depth that can be elusive when using traditional glazing methods.
Take a look at the pieces displayed below. I'm genuinely curious to hear your thoughts and any questions you might have. If you're familiar with single fire glaze firings, I'd be delighted to hear about your experiences too. Feel free to share in the comments - your insights are truly valued!
Belinda
