Kiln Metamorphism

Artist Statement

I based my piece on contact metamorphism, which describes how an existing rock is texturally and mineralogically altered through contact with hot magma. This process is driven by temperature change and not pressure, which is similar to how clay is transformed in a kiln. My initial plan was to create a cylindrical form with two different glazes and textures separated by a coil, representing the gradient often seen in contact metamorphism. The textures on my piece were inspired by the crystal alignment and mineral formation that occur during this process. I also used crystalline glaze—which forms crystals during firing—to replicate mineral regrowth.

My process involved a lot of experimentation; since I didn’t have the time to make a piece, evaluate it, and then adjust my approach to make another, I made all three cylinders at once and intentionally made each one different. This allowed me to try multiple texture and glaze combinations to increase the chances that one would turn out as I envisioned. One of my biggest challenges was using crystalline glaze. Because it is extremely runny, I had to throw separate glaze catchers to protect the kiln, which was difficult since these forms were unlike anything I had thrown before. Several early attempts failed, and after struggling, I stepped away from the wheel to reassess. I realized confidence was my main issue, and returning with a clearer mindset helped me succeed. Through this process and throughout the class, I learned that failure is an inevitable part of creating and that I do my best creative work when I take breaks and allow myself to experiment without too much pressure.

Working with ceramics also helped me better combine scientific and creative thinking. Learning the science behind ceramics helped me understand why each step in the ceramics process matters and allowed me to be more intentional with what I create, while the steps of the ceramics process helped me better understand geologic processes. Understanding how clays change in the kiln allowed me to be intentional when deciding what clay to use in relation to my type of form and its function. Using crystalline glaze made crystal growth more tangible and directly connected to geologic processes like igneous formation, and comparing bisque firing to metamorphism helped me further develop my understanding of both. Seeing these processes happen firsthand gave me a new perspective on creativity and reinforced the idea that science and creativity relate to each other in more ways than one and can often shape one another.