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Shirley Eberly
Clay Work

Fritz, clay sculpture
Fritz, clay sculpture

My clay work includes both sculptural and functional pieces. Bowls and plates range from traditional forms to very modern departures that draw heavily on oriental line and texture.Whimsical animals seem to create themselves in the process of working with clay. The secret is to be aware of what is developing.

I discovered my love of clay while working with young children as an elementary teacher. University classes gave me the technical skills I needed to begin an understanding of clay, glazes, and firing techniques. There is no end to the learning process.

The Silence of Stone, ceramic porcelain
The Silence of Stone, ceramic porcelain
To quote Al Boulton, in his book A California Country Pottery, (on firing) "One becomes aware of a certain sort of total helplessness in the face of massive heat, light and energy. ... Notions like "I" made the pot, or "I" made it a certain color, texture, etc., go up with the smoke." Working with the unknown is just part of the joy.

California exhibitions include the Sacramento area, Placerville, Mendocino Art Center, and Gualala.

© 2000 Shirley Eberly


Shirley Eberly
P.O. Box 312
The Sea Ranch, CA 95497
(707) 785-3327
dseberly@mcn.org


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