Vilis
Los Lunas, nm - United States
Vilis - Fine Artist
Member Since: 11/29/2010
The New Mexico landscape has always been a source of inspiration for me. It now provides me the opportunity to excavate and process local Micaceous Clay. Since the thirteen hundreds Micaceous Stoneware has been the cookware used on local kitchen ranges.
Mica particles strengthen the clay body and insulate the walls for superior cooking performance. Food cooked in them takes on a rich flavor that is unlike anything cooked in a metal or cast iron pot. Because mica is an insulator, the handles and rims do not retain a great deal of heat. The pieces can be taken from the stove directly to the table for serving. There are now only a handful of artist using this clay.
It is important to me to let the clay show its organic nature. Each vessel is complimented by its tactile qualities in addition this allows the eye to follow the form. The pottery I make is stone burnished to a glittery sheen and then pit fired. The fire clouds make each piece unique
Thank you.
Vilis
