Tony Orvis
In my view there are three main variables to consider when making pots – form/shape, surface treatment and colour/glaze. Of these I concentrate on form and surface treatment.
The form or shape of many of my pots are based on bottles or jars. Why? I like making them!
As far as surface treatment is concerned, most of my pots have a textured surface. There is always something new to see on the surface of a textured pot and, of course, textured pots are more tactile. I make a few smooth pots from time to time just to prove that I can do it and to satisfy those that prefer my shiny pots – some people do!
When it comes to colour I use a limited palette. Lots of texture and colour on a pot can make it too “busy” and I have found that you need to make a choice between texture or colour combinations. I also do not consider myself to be a great colourist!
Most of my pots have been thrown on the wheel with some having been altered. Many of them are textured with slips and oxides/glazes being applied over a number of firings.
The random processes used in making my pots means that each pot is unique. In fact I would find it difficult to make two identical pots! However, they share a number of common elements that hopefully binds them together as a body of work.