Jim Wylder (Studio #34)
Jim Wylder’s Naked Raku pottery is renowned for its striking, organic beauty, which blends the raw, earthy nature of clay with the dramatic, unpredictable effects created through the Raku firing process. Wylder’s work exemplifies the unique appeal of Naked Raku, a technique that exposes the bare ceramic body to the elements of fire and reduction, resulting in visually rich, textural surfaces.
Here are some defining features of Wylder’s Naked Raku pottery:
1. Natural Textures: Jim’s pieces often feature rich, textured surfaces where the clay body is left exposed and highlighted. The use of a slip/glaze layer over the pottery, which cracks and peels off after firing, creates a distinct pattern of fissures and cracks on the surface of the clay. These natural markings are a hallmark of Naked Raku, and Wylder’s ability to control the texture and patterns gives each piece a unique, one-of-a-kind look.
2. Contrasting Surfaces: The technique of reduction firing used in Naked Raku often results in a contrast between the dark, carbonized areas (from the reduction atmosphere in the chamber- a 55 gallon oil drum) and the lighter, more natural tones of the exposed clay body. Wylder expertly balances these contrasts, achieving stunning visual effects where the exposed clay may be smooth and polished, while other areas appear more rustic or charred.
3. Fluid Forms: Wylder’s pottery often features flowing, sculptural forms that emphasize the natural curves and lines of the piece. His shapes tend to have an elegant, yet earthy quality, which complements the textures and color variations of the Naked Raku process. His vessels might include, vases, or sculptural objects, each one a work of art in its own right.
4. Organic Aesthetic: The overall aesthetic of Wylder’s Naked Raku pottery is organic and earthy, often evoking natural landscapes or elements from the environment. The subtle variations in color and texture on each piece give it a sense of being a part of nature, making each piece feel both timeless and contemporary.
5. Minimalist Design: While the process itself can create highly intricate and complex patterns, Wylder often employs a minimalist approach in his design, letting the natural textures and colors of the clay take center stage. This allows the tactile and visual aspects of the pottery to shine, with an emphasis on form, surface, and texture.
Overall, Jim Wylder’s Naked Raku pottery is celebrated for its harmonious blend of artistic technique and natural beauty, with each piece showcasing the raw, elemental qualities of the clay while highlighting the unpredictable and dramatic effects of the Raku firing process.
Jim will be hosted by Jan Rimerman. Jan will also be hostig Dave Haslett, Debra Glanz, and Marta Farris.
NOTE: Pathways through the garden with two sets of stairs to reach the studio. Not wheelchair accessible.
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