Our task:

Our task was to create a surrealist teapot out of porcelain clay that can be displayed as a component of a “mad hatters party” related to Alice in Wonderland.

The Process:

The first thing we did before we even touched clay was go to the Alice in Wonderland exhibition. This experience allowed us to be inspired and understand the term “surrealism.” After this excursion, we also had the opportunity to go to Fluer Shell’s workshop and learn more about how to use porcelain clay. After these excursions, we were ready to explore the wonderful world of clay.

My first attempt at using clay was creating 2 vessels. From this experience, I learnt many things. I learnt that porcelain is very unforgiving. I also learnt to attach joints as strongly as possible as they often crack in the kiln. After this, I found that having thicker walls in my vessels allowed for a more sturdy final product.

So then we started the process of designing our teapots. After I had researched and collected inspiration pictures I decided on my final design. I then started creating the base of my pot. The hardest part of this was making the top of the pot base curve inwards.

After this, I continued to add to my pot. first I added my floral design. I did this by forming my flowers on the canvas and then transferring this to my pot. I then calved out my spout hole and added my spout. Added my handle was very difficult, if it was too thick it would fall off but if it was too thin it would break. Finally, I created the lid of my teapot. During and after this whole process I refined and smoothed my pot as much as possible.

After firing my pot in the kiln, it survived and had no major cracks. Then I applied copper wash and underglaze to accentuate my design. Adding the clear gloss to the inside of my pot was very nerve-racking as I had only one chance to get it right. Thankfully it went well. Now my pot requires a second fire and then it will be able to be tested and used. After completing my pot I was able to make anything I wanted so I made an ace of hearts and glazed a pre-made plate.

What went well?

• deciding on a design that I like
• Creating the base of the pot
• forming the flowers
• Refining and smoothing clay

Problems and Solutions

• Attaching the flowers (using very wet clay as glue and applying pressure)
• Making the spout the correct size (trial and error)
• Making the lip of the lid the perfect size to fit (measuring many times until it fits)
• Deciding on a design for the lid (decided that simplicity was best)

What I learnt:

• I learnt how to handle clay
• I learn that too much movement of the clay can form bubbles
• I learnt how to make a vessel from the designing – creation stage
• I learnt SO many important skills😀