Sgraffito

With time, I am finding that I am drawn to specific shapes that I repeat over and over when making functional table ware for our market stall. While the form of every object I make is important in my creative process, after exploring different shapes, I have settled on this simple almost angular shape for mugs and cups for now. As I work to improve this form, it is increasingly becoming a canvas on which to explore different surface treatments.

In particular I am currently drawn to the sgraffito technique, whereby different coloured slips or underglaze washes are applied directly to the green ware (unfired pot) then designs are scratched or carved to reveal the clay body underneath. Sgraffito, an Italian word, was used on walls in Europe during classical times and popular in Italy during the 15th and 16th centuries during the Italian Renaissance. It also features in African art. It has been widely used across the globe since then as a form of decoration.

There is something deeply satisfying and meditative about carving a design onto leather hard pots that has become a highlight of the making process of mugs and cups, bowls, and most especially platters. More about platters in another post!