Artist Spotlight: Tori Motyl

We are proud to feature local Wild Clay and Stoneware Ceramic Artist Tori Motyl. She is amazingly dedicated and talented. Her pieces are available in our studio through June.
Here’s what Tori has to say about her work:

Wild Clay:
Wild Clay is a term used to describe clay that is dug from the ground and used as is. This is opposed to commercial clays which are formulated using ingredients that are mined individually and combined in specific and consistent recipes. For my Wild Clay line, I dig all of my clay myself and process it only so much as to remove large rocks, bugs, and organic materials with a sieve. Then I experiment with the clay, learn it’s specific properties and characteristics, and create work that relates to the unique properties of the clay. I leave these pieces unglazed and use the atmosphere inside the kiln the pieces are fired in to give each one a unique and authentically wild surface. In this line of work I explore the traditional side of ceramic art. This line represents my desire for simplicity, sustainability, and working in collaboration with the natural world.

Ash:
My Ash line is an exploration in atmospheric firing. While these pieces are in the kiln, wood and soda ash is blown into the air, swirled in the heat currents, and made to come in contact with the surface of the pots, melting and creating a variety of colors and textures unique to the materials. Firing in this way is violent, unpredictable, and exciting. This line represents my desire to release control over my work and create pottery that is as much about the process as the final piece.

Stoneware:
All work in my stoneware line is made using high quality clays and food safe glazes for pottery that is meant for everyday use. This line of work represents my exploration in the world of commercially produced materials and tools and my enjoyment of trying new and popular trends.