How Medalta's Ceramic Residency Inspires Creativity Part 2

This episode features talented ceramic artists sharing their experiences, techniques, and cultural influences during their residency at Medalta. Discover insights into firing techniques, cultural symbolism, and the journey of developing a unique artistic style.Chapters00:00 Introduction to the Residency and Artist Background01:17 Artist's Journey and Experience at Medalta02:04 Collaboration and Firing Techniques in Ceramics02:40 Favourite Firing Methods: Soda Firing03:05 How a Love for Ceramics Began04:04 Creating Ceramic Tiles and Cultural Inspiration05:00 Technical Aspects of Tile Making and Firing06:08 Clay Types and Material Choices07:20 Using Molds and Wheel Throwing08:32 Different Firing Techniques: Raku and Pit Firing09:30 Achieving Iridescence and Surface Effects10:07 Animal Motifs and Cultural Significance11:02 Developing Personal Style and Future Plans12:48 Connecting with the Artistic Community13:13 Cultural Inspiration from the Prairies14:31 Experience at Medalta and Artistic Growth15:19 Grounding and Meditative Aspects of Working with Clay16:16 Inspiration from the Historic Medalta Factory17:23 Creating Unique Animal Sculptures18:19 The Unpredictability of Soda Firing19:21 Favorite Pieces and Personal Connection19:54 Future Aspirations and Continued Engagement with MedaltaCeramicists will tell you, each piece tells a story, and for many artists, this journey is transformative. Today, we delve into the experiences of Anaies Mehrabian, a ceramics student at the University of Manitoba, and Charlotte Saulnier a student at Concorida University. These women recently participated in the students artists in residence program at Medalta.Anaies began her journey with ceramics almost by accident. Initially enrolling in a ceramic class for fun, she quickly discovered that her passion for painting was overshadowed by her love for working with clay. The tactile nature of ceramics and the continuous engagement it requires allowed her to immerse herself fully in the medium. Charlotte says working with clay can be very grounding and meditative. She notes that ceramics can transform people and places. When people see her art they gravitate towards it and want to touch it. She says this is a great way of sharing. During her time in Medicine Hat she has been inspired by the horse. She notes that horses are able to do incredible labour and yet in her art she purposefully elongates their legs to symbolize their fragility.The women emphasized the importance of collaboration during their residency. Working with fellow students, they shared knowledge and ensured that everyone was well-rested and supported during the labour-intensive firing processes. This sense of community fostered a nurturing environment where they could learn and grow together.What makes this program stand out is that it is the only one of its kind in Canada. Students not only gain practical skills but also build a network of connections that can benefit their careers in the long run. Many alumni return as artists in residence, contributing to the program and mentoring the next generation of ceramic artists.Website - https://medalta.org/Hey we need your support. Like and subscribe to Bring Back The Porch PodcastSupport the show