Lynda Ladwig

Clay

I hand build from slabs of porcelain clay. I create series of functional pieces: trays, containers and vessels. Many of these pieces are comprised of two slabs of clay joined at the edges leaving a “pocket” of volume inside. I visualize the shapes in terms of elevations and edges. The “pocket” of volume contrasts with the sharp edges of the profile.
Function and form are paramount. My goal is that the shape can stand alone, decoration is only employed to strengthen the shape. Some of these pieces employ the use of slip (liquid clay) in either black or white. Designs are created through different methods: sgrafitto, paper stencil, and texture. Pieces are twice fired using a clear matte glaze or left unglazed. All of the functional pieces are food, microwave and dishwasher safe.