Pit Kiln Fired Pottery

For many years, New Mexico has enchanted me with it's high desert landscape, contrasting light, and rich history. I've spent countless afternoons hiking and horseback riding canyons, pondering petroglyphs, and wandering ancient ruins. Although my family does not stem from these roots, I have a deep respect for the Ancestral Pueblan culture which used to thrive in this rugged landscape. Sometimes, I find a coiled or painted pottery shard to temporarily hold and appreciate. It's an immediate connection to the past through something handmade. Their pottery was crucial to survival, yet craftsmanship and artistic choices are definitely present.

The pit firing process is sacred to me and serves as a link to ancient techniques and people. My "modern" version creates a lot of color and line, adding mystique to the decorative pottery. I use high fire clay bodies, which vary in color and lots of add lots of "magic dust" to the pit. My pots are wheel thrown, burnished and bisque fired. Then, I carefully place the pottery in a brick lined pit containing sawdust and other combustibles. I ignite the fire with local cedar and pine wood. Slowly, I bring the fire up to the desired temperature, building a solid bed of coals, then cover and cool for a few days. Upon unloading the kiln, you never know what color pattern or design will occur. It is what keeps me intrigued. There is a surreal, whimsical feel to the overall surface of the pot that connects with the viewer. If this happens to me, I know the piece is a success.