Wheel Thrown

This is my first large-form wheel-thrown project, thrown and assembled in five separate components. I was inspired by one of my favorite artists, Claude Monet, and his painting “Bridge over a Pond of Water Lilies.” I used B-Mix clay, my favorite for throwing, along with underglazes to recreate the Monet-inspired landscape. I had to throw and trim each section, and carefully connect them on the wheel. My first attempt at attaching the base failed when it completely cracked under the pressure, which was discouraging after so much hard work, but I persevered and threw a stronger bottom. I’m proud of my seamless final piece, knowing how much I struggled, learned and problem-solved.

With this piece, I wanted to capture the beauty of the hibiscus flowers in my back yard, while challenging myself with a difficult form to create: a teapot. This is the second teapot I’ve made so I knew the importance of throwing a large body and adding a functional spout, handle, and lid. I underglazed the flowers and glazed the body for a bright look. I am proud of its proportions, form, and function.