Roughing up the surface of clay is part of my process. Marks are drawn with all manner of tools scattered on my table . Marks are applied after a work is roughly formed. The mark making is spontaneous and fun! Working freely, quickly and with energy add vitality to the work.
This part of my process in clay sculpture reminds me of my approach to painting and drawing. I start with loose, energetic lines in pencil or charcoal quickly adding marks that capture the energy and movement I want to convey. Later I use cross-hatching to build form onto an otherwise 2 dimensional surface. My serrated steel rib, a clay tool. makes a similar kind of cross-hatching when I am working in clay. I am beginning to think my process of work in clay and my painting and drawing are more connected in a way that broadens the opportunities for creativity...
