JUNE TECHNICAL CHALLENGE WINNER
Ceramics Art QLD is excited to announce the winner of the June Technical Challenge, Cookie Cutter
Images supplied by the artist
The June challenge required participants to use a single cookie cutter shape to construct a sculpture
Sheryl Green from Chermside West, QLD
Interview with Sheryl Green
1. Creative Process — Your Cookie Cutter Sculpture stood out for both its technical precision and artistic character. Can you walk us through the moment the idea first formed and how it evolved during the making process?
When the Cookie Cutter Challenge was announced, it immediately got my creative ideas flowing. Choosing which cutter to use took some thought, as my collection is quite extensive, but I eventually settled on the butterfly. I liked the idea of taking a simple, flat shape and transforming it into something more sculptural. Rather than having the butterflies sit on the surface, I wanted them to appear as though they were emerging from the vessel and taking flight. The challenge also gave me the opportunity to rediscover materials and techniques that had been sitting unused in my studio for some time.
2. Technical Challenge — This challenge required a unique blend of engineering and ceramic skill. What was the most complex technical hurdle you faced, and how did you solve it?
My aim was to create the illusion of butterflies emerging from the pot while keeping the vessel structurally sound. The side cut-outs proved to be the biggest technical challenge, as removing sections of clay weakened the walls and made them prone to slumping when forming the cylinder. This required careful support until the clay was firm enough to hold its shape.
The butterflies were attached at different angles to create movement, while others were mounted on copper wire so they extended beyond the form and gave the impression of flying. Photographing the finished piece was also more difficult than expected. Finding the right angle to capture the depth, movement and relationship between the butterflies and the vessel took considerable experimentation.
3. Material Choices — Ceramic work often hinges on subtle decisions about clay bodies, tools, and surface treatments. What guided your choice of materials for this sculpture, and how did those choices shape the final outcome?
I chose PB103 paper clay because its bright white body provides an excellent background for the Japanese tissue paper transfers. I also find it a very forgiving clay to work with, particularly when creating delicate cut-outs and attached elements.
Copper wire was used to support the butterflies that extend beyond the vessel. By forming the wire into spirals, I was able to increase its strength and reduce sagging, while also adding a sense of energy and movement that complements the idea of butterflies in flight.
Over all, I enjoyed the challenge as it allowed me to play in a meaningful way that has given me a new line of kiln fillers for future income to support my clay habit.