Emily Brown: Altering the Form

Many of my ceramic vessels have an

altered or "natural" rim. This is done by

design, not happenstance. When I sit down at my wheel, I know that I am going to make a straight sided vase or a low wide bowl. I form each piece with intent. After the vessel is formed, I cut away sections of the rim and alter the shape by gently pushing it with my fingers. This makes the form more interesting. When applying the glaze, I pay attention to those altered areas so that the glaze will enhance the effect of the rim. The result is a more organic form that is my humble attempt to portray the natural beauty of the Ojai Valley.