Heron Mug

by Jennifer Stas 3" x 4.5" Each mug is slightly different. Heron is on both sides (as shown). The fundamental goal of my work is simple: a marriage between aesthetics and function, brought about through distinctive use of color and form. Starting with a practical and useful form, as I work my pot evolves in volume and texture and becomes a functional palette for layers of colorants and carving. Each stage of the process is a challenge - I often return to the same piece over and over in pursuit of the right balance of function, form and embellishment. I find all the inspiration I need in the endless imagery of the mountains and coasts of North Carolina, which I try to reflect in my pottery through vibrant colors against the earthy brown of the clay and the contrast of mattes and velvets against shiny and hard surfaces.