POLO RAMIREZ CERAMICS
  • Home
  • Artist Statement
  • Paddles Technique
  • News
  • Gallery
  • Gallery II
  • SALE
  • Curriculum/Vitae
  • Contact
  • Home
  • Artist Statement
  • Paddles Technique
  • News
  • Gallery
  • Gallery II
  • SALE
  • Curriculum/Vitae
  • Contact
POLO RAMIREZ CERAMICS

Day 1:

Picture
The Beginning

I begin by forming a cone.  Then, using my fist, I punch the clay to form a thick bowl shape.  The thick bowl must sit overnight.

Day 2: 

Picture
Thinning the Base

I begin to thin the bottom half using a paddle and stone.  I use my feet to hold the pot, the stone is placed inside as I paddle the outside. 
When the bottom is ready, the pot must rest until the next day.  
                                                  I set the pot upside down overnight, sometimes the 
                                                     sides are partially covered.

Day 3:

Picture
Paddle and Stone: Raising Sides

On Day three I begin raising the sides.  I continue to thin and raise the sides using the stone and paddle.  My goal is to achieve uniform thickness.

Day 4:

Picture
Cleaning, Smoothing, Texture

I use a broken saw blade to shave and smooth the sides.  I add a texture to create a contrast of smooth and rough surface.  When the texture is complete the 
vessel must sit until the next day.

day 5:

Picture
Adding Color

I use engobes or earth paints.  I gather the pigments myself and mix my own engobes.

In the firing process I sometimes use a tree resin as a 
resist.  I gather this myself as well.

Day 6:

Picture
Burnishing

I use a smooth stone to burnish my pieces.  This is an all day process.  The results will be a glossy glass-like finish.
At this point the piece must dry for a minimum of 2   

                                                      weeks.