This piece is inspired by trees, specifically one tree, a Northern Catalpa (number 9 in the official listing of Remarkable Trees of Canada’s Capital), growing along the Rideau River, in Ottawa, close to where I live.

I start by throwing cylinder on the wheel, then force the clay outwards until the rim starts to give way, recalling the idea of leaves waving in the breeze. After the first glaze firing, I add touches of porcelain, as a reminder of the Catalpa’s white, orchid-like blossoms.

Stoneware, porcelain, and glaze. Fired to cone 6, in oxidation.

Diameter: 21.5 cm, 11.5 cm