Utilizing North Carolina clay deposits as the foundation for ceramic research conducted at STARworks, Vlad Basarab, Emily Fedorchak, and Josh Goering have pulled together to display a culmination of their findings in the exhibition Forming Fire. While their lines of interest divulged and formed individually, slips, glazes, paper clay, and methods of firing were developed to display the raw characteristics of surrounding geology. By formulating recipes and investing in the chemistry of the materials, works were created to showcase the vast color range, surface variety, and beauty of the clay deposits. Ceramic form manipulates fire to dictate pathways and movement as work reaches completion. As their time comes to an end at STARworks, the fire within Vlad, Emily, and Josh remains alive, and they are thankful to those who help ignite the spark.
Over the past 6 months as an intern at STARworks, I have grown to be more curious about geology and ceramic materials than ever before. By spending time in a location with so many naturally occurring clay deposits and different geologic compositions, applying these materials to the work I make seemed like a no-brainer. Doing so allowed for these works to tie to location and time in ways not previously thought of, and learning about the uniqueness of each deposit has me intrigued to resource more material on my own. Brainstorming different means of application for this material has also been explored throughout the past several months.
More specifically, I developed interests in casting slips, foaming clay, and glazes, and have been playing with wood, salt, and gas reduction cooling as methods of firing. How many different ways can one geologic composition yield a different result – color, texture, movement? Testing the clay via line blends, triaxials, and a variety of cup experiments have led to surfaces that can be translated to larger compositions. Applying these recipes showcases the raw material and encourages an outsider’s touch. No longer is clay ignored but rather used to serve a purpose.
As my time in North Carolina comes to an end, I am finishing firings, and reflecting on what I’ll miss most – the community. Seagrove is truly a hub of unique ceramic knowledge that is always evolving due to the makers living within the vicinity. Being a part of this community has been a huge blessing, and I will cherish the memories and lessons learned. This post helps to highlight some of the works I am most proud of after working with this special community, and I am truly walking away from this experience having made many friendships that will last a lifetime. Special thank you to Takuro and Hitomi Shibata for being such graceful mentors willing to share and help at all times. I will miss you very much.
Emily Fedorchak 