Unlocking the Secrets of Crafting Perfect Hard Slab Pottery
Ceramics known as “hard slab pottery” are made by molding and shaping clay slabs into certain shapes. Hard slab pottery can be made using a variety of processes.
Ceramic Art
- From Cracked to Pristine: How Kiln Wash Can Save Your Kiln and Your Pottery Projects
Kiln wash is a coating applied to the kiln shelves to prevent ceramic pieces from sticking during firing. It is typically made of a mixture of materials like alumina hydrate, kaolin, and silica, and can be applied by brushing, spraying, or pouring. Kiln wash needs to be applied in multiple layers, and needs to be … Read more - Breaking Boundaries: Can You Keep an Electric Kiln Outside?
Exposure to the elements can damage the electrical components, insulation and shell of an electric kiln. Extreme temperatures can cause the kiln to malfunction or even pose a safety hazard. Manufactures of electric kilns advise it is best to keep the kiln indoors or in a protected area. What are the considerations for keeping an … Read more - Unlocking the Mystery of Peepholes on Kilns
Peepholes are small openings in a kiln that allow the potter to see inside the kiln during firing without opening the door. Opening the door can cause temperature fluctuations that can damage the ceramic pieces inside. Using peepholes, the potter can monitor the firing process & make adjustments as needed without disrupting the kiln’s temperature. … Read more - The Right Time to Open a Kiln
A kiln can be opened once it has completed its firing cycle and has cooled down to a safe temperature. The length of time required for a kiln to cool depends on various factors. Such as the size and type of kiln, the firing temperature, and the type of material being fired. It is recommended … Read more
Firing Techniques
- Firing Clay | Money Saving Tip
Firing clay turns raw clay into ceramic through high-temperature heating. This occurs in a kiln. Clay is fired in two stages: bisque firing and glaze firing. The first fire is a bisque firing, which is slower. - Ceramic Firing Techniques
Methods of Ceramic Firing Firing is the method for making ceramics that can endure a lot of pressure. Firing takes place in an oxygen-rich environment. When it comes to firing pottery, there are two primary methods. The use of kilns and open firing are the two methods. The crucial step in the ceramic process is … Read more - Pit Firing Techniques
Using The Pit Firing Method Pit Firing is an ancient method for firing pottery. Pit Firing goes back to 25,000 to 29,000 BCE. Unfired pots are grouped together in the ground and are surrounded by combustible materials. The pit is set on fire. After cooling, pots are cleaned and sometimes waxed, creating a smooth glossy … Read more - Raku Firing Technique
Using The Raku Method Raku firing is a low-temperature firing method. The pottery is removed from the kiln while the pots are hot and the glaze is still molten. Raku is typically made from stoneware clay. Raku firing is bisque fired at 900 °C or 1,650 °F. And glaze fired between 800 to 1,000 °C … Read more
Ceramic Glazes
- How To Use Underglaze: Mastering the Art of UnderglazeUnderglaze is a colored ceramic material applied to bisqueware pottery. To use underglaze, prepare the bisque-fired piece and ensure it is clean. Apply the underglaze using a brush, sponge, stencil, or other techniques to create desired patterns. Once dry, apply a clear or tinted glaze, then fire the pottery to seal the underglaze and create … Read more
- The Art of Glazing Pottery: Tips and Techniques for Stunning Results
To glaze pottery, choose the right glaze, prepare the pottery, and apply the glaze in a smooth, even coat. Fire the pottery in a kiln to fuse properly the glaze to the clay body. Take safety precautions to avoid exposure to hazardous particles and dispose of glaze materials safely. Get Your Glaze On: Pottery Glazing … Read more - Reviving Treasured Pottery: How to Successfully Reglaze Your Favorite Pieces
Reglazing pottery involves applying a new layer of glaze to a piece of pottery to restore its appearance, functionality, or value. It can be done on both new and old pottery, but it requires skill and expertise to be done properly and effectively. It can be beneficial in several ways, but also has risks and … Read more - The Cracking Conundrum: Understanding Crazing in Ceramics
Crazing in ceramics is a network of fine cracks that can appear on the glazed surface of pottery. This phenomenon occurs due to differences in the thermal expansion rates between the glaze and the clay body. Crazing can affect the durability of ceramics and may be intentional or unintentional. Beyond the Surface: The Science and … Read more
Clays
- The Ultimate Showdown: Stoneware vs Earthenware – Which Reigns Supreme?
Stoneware and earthenware are two types of ceramics used for pottery making. Stoneware is fired at high temperatures and is denser, stronger and more durable. Earthenware is fired at lower temperatures and is softer, more porous and more fragile. Stoneware is often used for tableware, while earthenware is used for decorative items. Pottery Wars: Stoneware … Read more - Terra Sigillata: The Magic of Fine Clay Slip and Its Many Uses in Ceramics
Terra sigillata is a fine-grained clay slip used in pottery to create a smooth, polished surface on ceramic ware. The name comes from the Latin “terra” (earth) & “sigillata” (sealed), referencing its ability to create a sealed surface. It is made by separating the fine particles of clay from coarser ones through a process of … Read more - The Beauty and Strength of Bone China
Bone china is a type of porcelain that is made from a mixture of clay, feldspar, & bone ash. It is known for its thin & delicate appearance, as well as its translucency. Bone ash, which is made from the bones of cows, gives bone china its unique properties. It was first developed in England … Read more - Exploring the Depths of Earth to Find Clay
Clay can be found in various parts of the world, including riverbeds, hillsides, and sedimentary rock formations. It is formed by the weathering of rocks over a long period of time. Types of clay are formed depending on the composition of the parent rock and the prevailing environmental conditions. Clay is also sometimes found in … Read more
Ceramic Artistry
- From Prehistoric Times to Modern Art: A Brief History of Pinch Pots
Pinch pots have a long & rich history dating back to ancient times when they were used for practical & ceremonial purposes. This pottery technique involves forming clay by pinching and squeezing with the fingers & has been used by many cultures worldwide. Pinch pots were often used to hold food, water, and other items, … Read more - The Long and Winding Road of Coil Pottery: A Historical Journey
Coil pots are one of the oldest forms of pottery, dating back over 10,000 years. The technique involves rolling clay into long, thin coils and then stacking them on top of each other to create the desired shape. Coil pots have been found in many cultures throughout history, including ancient Egypt, Greece, and Native American … Read more - Uncovering the Secrets of Valuable Pottery: What to Look For
The value of pottery is based on several factors such as age, rarity, condition, historical & cultural significance, & the reputation of the artist or maker. Marks & signatures can also increase value. To determine the value of pottery, research & appraisals from reputable sources are recommended. A combination of factors must be considered to … Read more - Celebrating the Ceramic Art Renaissance: A Look at the Splendid Masterpieces
The renaissance period saw a renewed interest in ceramic art, with artists experimenting with new forms and techniques. Pottery became more ornate, with intricate designs and vivid colors. Some notable ceramic artists from this period include Luca della Robbia and Bernard Palissy. The Beauty of Ceramics: Exploring the Art of the Renaissance Period Ceramic art … Read more
The Supreme Artistry: Exploring the Highest Form of Art
The expression or application of human creative ability and imagination is called art. The highest form of art is subjective and varies depending on one’s perspective. Some may argue that classical music, opera, and ballet are the highest forms, while others may argue that painting, sculpture, or literature are the highest forms.
Artistic Philosophy
- From the Streets to the Gallery: How Graffiti Tagging Has Influenced Contemporary Art
A tag is a stylized signature or symbol created by a graffiti artist, often using spray paint or markers. It is typically a quick and simple design used to mark territory or establish the artist’s presence in a particular area. Tags can range from simple monikers to elaborate designs incorporating letters, numbers, and graphic elements. … Read more - Defining Graffiti Art: Is it Art or Vandalism?
Graffiti is a form of art that involves creating visual or textual content on public surfaces, such as walls or buildings. Whether graffiti is considered art or vandalism depends on factors such as location, intent, and quality. Graffiti has a rich history, ranging from ancient civilizations to modern urban street culture, and has influenced mainstream … Read more - The Mysterious Art of Banksy: Why He’s So Famous
Banksy is famous for his anonymous street art and social commentary. He uses a unique style of graffiti to make political statements and challenge societal norms. His work often includes stenciled images and provocative messages that capture the public’s attention and inspire conversation. The mystery surrounding his identity has only increased his notoriety. Banksy: The … Read more - The Power of Art: Escaping Shallowization
Art has been a part of human history for a long time, starting from the cave paintings of early humans to the masterpieces of the Renaissance and beyond. As it shapes our culture and provides a potent outlet for creative expression, art is still significant in modern society. The need for artistic expression has never … Read more
Art Education
- The Venus of Savignano: A Mysterious Prehistoric Figurine
The Venus of Savignano is a prehistoric figurine discovered in 1925 in the Savignano sul Panaro region of Italy. Made of steatite, it stands at 10 centimeters tall and features an exaggerated belly and breasts. Created during the Upper Paleolithic period, the figurine is believed to have been associated with fertility and/or goddess worship. What … Read more - Exploring the Venus of Laussel: A Window Into Prehistoric Art and Culture
The Venus of Laussel is a prehistoric limestone figurine from the Upper Paleolithic period, discovered in 1911 in the Laussel cave in southwestern France. The figurine is about 47 centimeters tall and depicts a female figure holding a bison horn in one hand. And lifting her other hand in a gesture of blessing or protection. … Read more - The Venus of Hohle Fels: A Prehistoric Masterpiece
The Venus of Hohle Fels is a small, stylized figurine that is believed to be around 35,000 years old. It was created during the Upper Paleolithic period, and it is made from mammoth ivory. The Venus of Hohle Fels is one of the oldest examples of figurative art in the world, and it has challenged … Read more - Uncovering the Mysterious Venus of Dolni Vestonice: A Journey Through Prehistoric Art and Human Evolution
The Venus of Dolni Vestonice is a prehistoric ceramic artifact discovered in the Czech Republic. It is believed to be one of the oldest known depictions of the female form, dating back to over 25,000 years ago. The figurine is made of baked clay and is approximately 4.4 inches tall. Revealing the Secrets of the … Read more
Meet The Artabys Team
Our mission is to promote comprehensive education on visible arts, including ceramic artwork, paintings, drawings, sculptures, and pottery design. We want to help you create your own art and learn how to evaluate and appreciate it. At Artabys, we’re also dedicated to supporting talented artists by offering their one-of-a-kind handcrafted or painted artworks for sale, as well as framed prints signed by the artist digitally.
Hello there! I am Ed Shears, a professional ceramic artist and author at Artabys.com, a website dedicated to promoting visual arts education and awareness. My passion lies in creating unique ceramic wall art that breaks away from the traditional pottery made on a potters wheel.
Meesh Switch is a multi-talented artist, author, webmaster, and product manager at Artabys.com. With years of experience in the art world, Meesh is passionate about promoting visual arts education and supporting talented artists.
Hello, I’m David Jackson, an artist and editor for Artabys.com. As a publisher for Artvilla, The Magazine of Modern Art, Poetry, and Music since 1992, I have extensive experience in the art industry. My latest artwork can be seen at SaleforArt, where I showcase my diverse range of contemporary art.