Tropical Teapot 2017

Susan Wills Ceramics

My ceramic work is hand built using slab construction or altered extruded elements. I prefer to work in stoneware or high fire paper clays. I always sketch my ideas before I start a project. I'll make one or two prototypes before I cut templates or patterns. Over time templates allow me to revisit ideas, edit, combine shapes, and evolve my ceramic forms.

I use a variety of layered glazes and slips to build interest and add texture to the clay surface. Each piece is fired twice, bisque fired to temper the ware for glazing, then a second time to over 2300° F in a gas and/or electric kiln.

Artist Statement

My artistic vision is always about creating a strong visual element, a unique combination of a positive form and a negative space.  I'm never trying for perfection in my forms or surfaces, like in life it is often the imperfections that I find most interesting. I strive to create work that is decorative, modern, unique and a bit unusual, as in vessels that may have a bit of mystery
about their source, practical purpose, or utility.