Laura Vik
I began working with clay back in 2006, learning under the instruction of Tom Clarkson at PVCC. I immediately found my home. What attracted and still attracts me to clay is its versatility. You can create pieces that are smooth and fluid or heavily textured, inviting one to touch and experience the piece, not just through sight but also touch. Recently I have been inspired by the work of Keith Schneider, who uses clay to create old toys that show a history of love and use. This has encouraged me to contemplate age and the passage of time in creating pieces. I have begun using stitching and patching as well as pushing clay to show cracks and wear. My hope is that the result will encourage a person to connect with the piece.
I use both wheel and hand-building techniques in my work. My glazes and slips tend to be more muted in color and often will vary in color based on thickness and texture. All of my pieces are fired in an oxidation kiln to cone 6 with a slow cooling period to encourage a more matt surface to my glazes.
Studio 9
Charlottesville cluster
