Have you ever wanted to do something different but put it to the back of your mind as too hard?
I am very proud of my daughter because she has had a want for a long time and two weeks ago, she brought it to fruition, opening her amazing Ripple Rock Ceramics with all sought-after beautiful pottery.
Here's her story:
Ripple Rock Ceramics was born after experiencing and falling in love with the ancient process of working with clay. Having the ability to use an ancient process with a modern twist, to create beautiful shapes and pieces that can be used or admired is simply divine!
My love of pottery and ceramics began many years ago and sat quietly in the background until the time was right.
The right time started to stir, when I received a gift of 6 pottery lessons. The love simply blossomed. I continued going long after the 6 lessons were complete.
I was excited to go to pottery class every week, with my enjoyment and appreciation for the art constantly expanding.
I wanted to create every day.
That thought sparked the fire of a goal within me.
The inspiration for Ripple Rock Ceramics began in 2021.
My gorgeous partner, created a workshop space and bench to my specifications for me.
Natural light floods in, with an outlook over Lake Macquarie. I adore this space.
In 2023, the pieces all fell into place. A suitable kiln came into my sphere. With great excitement the kiln was purchased. After getting to know the kiln with lots of creating and firing, the time was right.
January 2024 Ripple Rock Ceramics launched!
www.ripplerockceramics.com.au
I hope you love it.
Rx
The Process of Creating Ceramics (Pottery)
1. The first step is to create the piece out of the clay. I love the feeling of the clay, and standing back after some time to proudly admire the newly formed creation.
2. This is followed by the important drying process. The newly created pieces need to be left to dry for at least two weeks.
3. Then for the first firing - often referred to as the Bisque firing. The clay pieces are placed in the kiln and 'fired' at approx. 10000 Celsius.
4. When the pieces are cool, the exciting task of opening the kiln happens. Not all pieces survive this process. Making the pieces that do, so special.
5. Glazing - Ceramic glaze, or simply glaze, is a coating applied 3 times to each piece. Glaze is used for decoration and to ensure the item is impermeable to liquids. Glazes can form a variety of surface finishes, including degrees of glossy or matte finish and colour.
6. Each piece is placed in the kiln for another 'firing'. Generally, the second (glaze) firing is a lot hotter than the first (bisque) firing.
7. When the kiln is cool, it is the exciting time of opening the kiln. Holding my breath, I open the kiln, hoping the pieces have survived the firing process and are ready to be used and admired.
