Conkers the Red Squirrel Sculpture
A unique sculpture of a red squirrel
This large sculpture of a red squirrel was inspired during my time watching them amongst the pines of the Formby red squirrels reserve.
Small and cute, tufty ears and super fast, these little guys were so expressive with their movements. Briefly pausing between lightning speed.
The glaze I have used has subtle highlights and lowlights.
Size – Approx 39cm in height by 41cm in length.
Material – Stoneware clay and glaze. Stamped underneath with my logo.
Weight– Approx 7.7kg
Free UK delivery – Please allow 5 working days.
International delivery – will take longer but is tracked. Cost of international shipping will depend on your location, please email me if you’d like a quote.
VAT – Price includes VAT at 20% in applicable countries.
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!
Conkers 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 them to bring out their character.
Next was the bisque firing – a progressive heating programme to reach 1000°C.
Once cooled (48 hours later) I was able to hand paint three layers of glaze to them.
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.
