Path and Inspiration
Earth, Air, Water and Fire and the rhythm of throwing on the wheel connects Shailja to a particular state of mind. She draws on the traditions of ceramics from ancient civilisations cultivating new inventive techniques in shaping, glazing and firing. Inspired by traditional vessels she tries to express a connection between memories, people and nature. The vessels are a combination of several elements and every construction somehow finds its own balance.
Process and Practice
All work is thrown and then manipulated with stoneware and porcelain clay bodies. Each piece is completely one of a kind and consists of small forms that are then assembled into larger pieces or installations. The surface is unadorned and monochromatic so that the focus remains on the form.
I have develop my own glazes and the vessels are high fired in the electric kiln - sometimes multiple fired to get the desired effect.
