WILSON, N.C. – Highlighted on the cover of the latest issue of “PotteryMaking Illustrated” is the work of Barton art professor Mark Gordon. Gordon’s article “Pushing the Envelope,” leads the magazine’s list of titles with a step-by-step process of joining dry clay to dry clay.
This ceramic assembly procedure, “Dry/Wet/Dry: Pushing the Handbuilding Envelope,” was demonstrated in March by Gordon at the Furini Memorial Outdoor Sculpture Symposium at Meredith College. Gordon shared a two-page handout explaining this original clay process and later forwarded the notes to the editor of the national bi-monthly “PotteryMaking Illustrated.” The editor liked the idea and asked Gordon to write a more in-depth article that included step-by-step photos as well. With the help of photographer Steven Stewart, Barton’s circulation librarian, the process was documented, and one of the close-ups was eventually chosen as the cover photograph for the September/October issue.
Gordon was originally inspired to try this technique after observing the traditional rural brick makers on the banks of the Nile near Aswan, Egypt. “I have adapted it over the years as I faced various deadlines and scheduling challenges, including the breakneck production pace when I have the chance to travel and make art in different studio spaces,” shared Gordon. “Through these experiences, I have developed a body of work that uses this peculiar technique for joining bone-dry pieces so that I can produce pieces in these situations where more traditional clay construction techniques would not work.”
Gordon will demonstrate this unique clay assembly method again at his open studio sale at 808 Woodard Street on October 3, 4, 5. Studio hours for the demonstration and ceramics sale will be Friday, 3-5 p.m., Saturday, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., and Sunday, 2-4 p.m.
For additional information, please contact Mark Gordon at 252-399-6474, 293-4925, or email: [email protected].
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Questions? Contact Kathy Daughety, director of public relations, at 252-399-6529 or email: [email protected].