Kaaren Poole

Creating ceramic animal figures is a multi-step process.  The first is sculpting the piece in clay.  I usually begin with the head then build the figure from there, doing all my sculpting by hand with no molds.  Once the sculpting is complete and the piece is thoroughly dry, it goes into the kiln for the bisque firing at about 2,000 degrees F.  The next step is to apply the glaze.  I use several colors on each piece, and each color must be applied in three coats.  Then the piece goes back into the kiln for the final firing, this time at about 2,150 degrees F.

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As you may well guess, my subjects are always animals and usually whimsical. They are also all small. I'd say the tallest would be about ten inches. They are just so fun to make. I usually talk with them as I sculpt.