I have been very slowly making my way through processes and media that are new to me. Both Ceramics and bronze casting have been on my wish list since I was a child. I am so excited to say that I have found ways to make accomplishing these goals very accessible.

I have discovered microwave Kilns for firing small ceramics. These are not new but they are new to me and wonder of wonders! They work!

I have also finally taken the plunge and started firing my first small bronze animal pendants in my jewelry kiln.

It has taken a very long time to get my kiln and my new studio microwave set up outside my house but finally I am good to go. I have spent the last couple of days working with these new tools and this new medium.

I am filled with excitement for the possibilities and finding myself exhilarated at the process and prospect of more Studio work especially in sculpture.

Here are a few photos of my new work and though they are still in the process of being finished and refined and are not yet set in settings I have got ideas let's say and I will be hopefully filling a Sketchbook with many ideas for developing an exciting collection. I hope you will stay tuned. I really appreciate your support and encouragement and your kind comments!

You can find some glimpses of behind the scenes process on my Instagram account.

Here’s my treasures from this week’s studio adventure: white ceramic animal portraits, bronze horse portrait and my chunky fine silver horse portrait pendant.

Above is one of the ceramic bear portrait sculpture cabochon style focal piece with a layered treatment of ink washes. I’ll be sealing it with cold wax I think. I expect it will sink into and seal any porosity, creating some depth. I prefer not to use an acrylic sealant as I don’t want it becoming cloudy or chipping off.

One day soon I'll be learning how to glaze my ceramic pieces properly. I also want to try raku and horse hair (dog and cat hair too!) firing too.

So many possibilities!

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