Clay post

Clay experiment.

Using clay helped me widen my resources and enabled me to see which dimension I wanted to work in, either 3D or 2D. I used clay on my first idea, it was a simple head shot.

Method:

1. First gather your equipment. Rolling pin, clay, sugar paper, carving tools and a pot of water.
2. Take a chunk on clay, then roll it out till its the thickness of two pound coins stacked on top of each other.
3. Next you want to carve out the basic structure, for me it was just lilly's head. Then take off the excess clay. Lightly imprint the other features e.g. ears, nose and eyes.
4. Next you want to build up the features, First start with the eyes. Roll out the basic shape for the eyes then using water mould it into the structure. Be careful not to apply too much water.
5. Then start with the nose, dig out a little crevasses to give the impression of the nose being raised, you can do the same for the ears and the area behind the ears.
6. Then add in the finer details using a small sharp tool. Start with the detail in the ears, using the tool to create lines and direction, add small sharp strokes to imitate fur. Then you can start with the whiskers and nose. 
7. Then put the clay piece into the kilm. For a bisque firing. This lasts for about 2 hours. 
8. After its out of the kilm you can start painting. As the clay has reached the leather hard stage. You first have to mix the powered paint with water. I used browns and blacks to highlight light and dark tones. Once its dry it can be glazed and put back in the kilm.

Health & safety

1. Clay dust- This can be very dangerous is inhaled over a long period of time. 
2. Use a wet sponge to clean up clay dust.
3. Always wash off your equipment after use. 
4. No eating in the studio.