My Struggle with Color…
Working with Color Blindness in Ceramics
As a ceramic artist with a passion for creating beautiful pottery pieces, I must navigate a unique challenge - a level of color blindness in the Red-Green spectrum. While I can discern most base colors effectively, shades of greens and browns often present a significant challenge for me, occasionally leading to unexpected color outcomes in my glazes. Fortunately, the Blue-Yellow spectrum poses no issues, allowing me to work with these hues effortlessly.
When it comes to reproducing colors in glazes, I find that some colors are inherently easier to replicate than others. Blues and browns stand out as the simplest to create due to the multitude of colorant oxides available that naturally produce a range of shades within these color families. By adjusting the amount of colorant slightly, I can easily achieve various tones of blue or brown with minimal effort. However, capturing accurate greens and reds demands a more delicate touch and meticulous attention to detail.
In the world of ceramic glazing, temperature and cooling cycles play a crucial role in determining the final appearance of a piece. A glaze can exhibit different finishes and colors based on the speed of cooling, transitioning from a matte to a glossy surface or showcasing varying hues depending on the cooling process applied.
Despite the creative rewards of working with glazes, ceramic artists must be wary of potential defects that can arise during firing. From pinholes and blisters to crawling and color inconsistencies, the list of possible glaze defects is extensive. Each firing presents a unique set of challenges, making the successful completion of a ceramic piece a truly remarkable achievement.
Among the myriad considerations when using clay glazes, the most significant concern lies in the composition of the glaze itself. Glazes contain a mixture of silica, fluxes, and colorants, with some components carrying high toxicity levels if inhaled. Toxic glaze constituents such as Antimony, Arsenic, Lead, and Chromium underscore the importance of handling these materials with utmost care and following proper safety protocols in the studio.
Navigating the complexities of color perception, glaze creation, and glaze application requires a keen eye, steady hand, and unwavering commitment to safety in the world of ceramic artistry. Through dedication and continuous learning, I strive to overcome challenges and create pottery pieces that not only captivate the eye but also adhere to the highest standards of craftsmanship and safety.
Always moving forward…
