This piece was exhibited and sold in the Northern Queensland Ceramics Award 2022
Chinese red plum blossoms in early spring. It can flower even in cold snow. Therefore, it is a symbol for resilience and perseverance in the face of adversity. I wish this vase to impart courage to people.
The plum tree is hugging around the vase which has a steady strong shape. I create different views around the vase as it changes its aspect at every turn.
I throw and trim the vase on wheel. The colour and texture of bare porcelain is an ideal snow background. I use a Chinese calligraphy brush to paint the trunk and branches with black slip. It creates patterns and more importantly the different textures of aged and young bark. To build the thickness of copper red glaze, I use a water dropper to dot the blossom. Chun glaze forms the thin snow rested on the tree. It further sculpts the natural surface of tree branches.