Unique ceramic hare sculpture
Continuing my exploration of divine feminine power and the mythology surrounding the wildlife of Britain.
Boxing Hares
Most people believe that boxing hares are usually fighting males. Very often it’s the female sizing up the male to make sure he’s good enough for her. If he can match her strength she will then challenge him to keep up with her speed, before watching him pit himself against her other suitors. Then, and only then, will she consider him worthy of her.
In a world full of Disney princesses waiting for their prince charming to rescue them, I LOVE the divine feminine power of the hare which inspired this sculpture.
Size – Approx 26cm in height
How they were made
Mud, glorious mud! well, professional-grade stoneware clay from the UK to be precise.
Out of the bag the clay needs, “wedging,” to remove any air trapped that can later cause problems during firing. Wedging is physical and theraputic!
This piece was built using the ancient coiling technique which involves rolling coils and building the shape up in layers to create a hollow form (solid structures are more likely to blow up during firing as any moisture left tries to escape.) It’s a slow process -you can’t rush the build as the form may just collapse under its own weight.
After allowing them to dry a little I was able to shape and sculpt the details to bring out their character.
Next was the bisque firing – a progressive heating programme to reach 1060°C.
Once cooled (48 hours later) I was able to hand paint three layers of metallic glaze.
Next was the glaze firing – this time the temperature reaches 1245°C, this is where the alchemy and magic happens and gives the surface the final appearance.
To finish off the sculpture I added a separately fired black clay base which was then attached to her.
