Big Surprises and Commisions

So the past month has been full of surprises. When I took my research on glazes to the regional science fair I did much better than I ever could have imagined. I ended up receiving 1st in my category (Engineering) and 2nd overall with a couple special awards. I was selected to attend ISEF (International Science and Engineering Fair) as a finalist and competitor. I backed out because the Coleman/Long workshop was that exact same week. Then I took my research to our State Science Fair. I was astonished when I did as well at state as at our regional fair. I took first in my category (Engineering once again) and 2nd overall! In the whole state. I was shocked. I was the state's first candidate to attend ISEF and I did not know what to do. Once again the decision was in front of me, Coleman/Long workshop or International Science Fair! Ahhh. That was one of the hardest choices I have made in my life. But then I realized that then it was more than just me. I was representing the school, the state, and ceramic artists as a whole. I decided to attend ISEF, which is held in San Jose, CA this year. I got back to school the next week and then learned that I had qualified for another international science fair (ISWEEEP) which is held in Houston.
I still had not let Red Lodge know about my decision. I then learned that they were opening a show in Powell and I knew immediately it would be best to tell them in person. That show has been a turning point in my life. The support that was shown amazed me. All of the resident artists, David Hiltner, and Markus all showed the greatest support. I was able to see people who are succeeding and loving what they are doing in the Ceramic Arts all with their own style. I then attended a small 2-dayASU faculty workshop in Red Lodge that weekend. Watching them work was not the greatest thing I experienced but rather their philosophies and all of the others attending.
So I guess Houston and San Jose, Here I Come!

Mendenhall Bowls and Plates

I received a commission from some very good family friends back in Utah, the Mendenhalls. Edward commissioned me to throw 4 bowls and 4 plates. He wanted something unique and this is what I came up with.
The plates remind me of lily pads :D




Karin's Cups :-)

These were bisqued and then four glazes were sprayed on overlapping each other to give a very subtle earthy affect.