LILAC SUN POTTERY

Shirley Phillips- photo by Fireweed

Inspiration for hand-builder Shirley Phillips has always been as close as the latest found object suitable for pressing tactile patterns into a clay surface. 

The "Suessian" flower tubes, below, will be wood-fired in the 
upcoming Anagama Kiln firing.


 




A different kind of texture adorns the bamboo vase on the right, and a thick application of clay slip was applied to the surface of the three tea bowls (below, right).  




Inside the kiln, wood ash and swirling smoke caress the surface of each piece, creating truly one of kind flashes of color and warm golden hues.







Other treaures abound in the studio, including "Belly Cups" (below) which fit comfortably into the palm and are perfect for sipping wine, mead, or other spirits. 

Phillips has also been experimenting lately with crushed glass. Recycled right here on Denman, this material is combined with clay slip that fuses to the clay surface. When this highly textured piece is fired, the green glass in the centre will create a jewel-like pool.