Natalie Blake hopes for a bold statement of energy in her pieces, whether through a smooth form or a textured vessel that reflects the energy moving around it. The viewer is drawn to the play of light over each form and the depth of color in her rich, matte glazes. She is influenced by the sea and the ancient tradition of telling stories on a vessel form. She will often incorporate hand-rolled tines, sea urchins and anemones into her designs.
Each vessel is thrown in porcelain clay with texture carved with a metal tool. The artist then rubs the relief details free of glaze so that the porcelain clay is exposed. Finally, the pieces are fired to 2300 degrees giving them an antiqued appearance. |