Majolica Glazing
and Decoration
Project #2
Problem: Create a series of
pieces that use cone 04 majolica glaze and brush decoration with stains.
Objective: Learn
how to mix a cone 04 majolica glaze as well as coloring stains. Become familiar
with producing ware that utilizes brush decoration through stain application on
a white majolica glaze. Develop imagery
that utilizes the layering and color field/linear decoration technique.
Strategy:
Read the tutorial on the class
blog relating to this topic. http://cmulowfiretechnique.blogspot.com/p/project-3.html
Make several color sketches of
that explore variations in expression of your personal aesthetic.
Produce a small body of work
(5-10 pieces hand built or 15-20 pieces thrown on the wheel) using simplified forms
with smooth surfaces. Approach the
surface decoration as a “drawing” for personal expression.
Try color combinations that
relate to color theory and darker colors as outlines for the emphasis of
shapes.
Address the background of your composition and use a light wash of color to spice up the white glaze.
Instructions:
Discuss the drawings you have
made with your instructor before beginning
Make a series of simplified forms
that will focus on the surface of the piece as a “canvas”.
All pieces should employ the
use of multiple color combinations with the addition of black for emphasis.
IMPORTANT:
-Learning this glazing process takes time and repeated firings for refinement of the technique.
-Learning this glazing process takes time and repeated firings for refinement of the technique.
-Screen all of the majolica
glaze before use.
-Pay close attention to the
thickness of glaze application. The
glaze works best when applied about the thickness of a dime. Too thick and the glaze will crawl. Too thin
and the clay body will show through the glaze or the glaze will look “dry”
after firing.
-Smooth all of the bubbles and drips on the surface of the glaze before beginning the brush decoration.
-Smooth all of the bubbles and drips on the surface of the glaze before beginning the brush decoration.
-Do not fire low fire clay to
high fire temperatures.
-Do not confuse low fire clay
with high fire clay.
http://ceramicartsdaily.org/ceramic-glaze-recipes/low-fire-glaze-recipes/messing-with-majolica-an-instructor-shares-tips-for-learning-and-teaching-the-majolica-technique/
