Had a few frustrating weeks not being able to get in the studio for various reasons.  Waiting for porcelain pieces to be fired, although some are so fine they are crumbling when air dried.  Holding them together with wire, which is giving some beautiful effects.  Varnished some parts before firing - the contrast between the varnished and non-v is obvious - some subtle tones. 

Also fine-tuning wax bricks - making in layers, plunging them into cold water before pouring hot wax - trapping lint between, then piercing with soldering iron.  

Spending more time in the studio - running between wax pots and porcelain pieces - in different rooms so getting lots of exercise as well.   Intend making two exhibition pieces with a common thread.  Embedding lint in wax blocks, then working into them with soldering iron. Can't do this in the college as the fire alarm will probably go off from the wafting wispy smoke.  Not much better doing this at home, but at least I'm not poisoning everyone with the fumes.  Differing opinions as to whether paraffin wax is toxic - but I'm not taking any chances.  Face mask constantly on.  

Porcelain pieces coming along nicely - getting some good effects from firing with wrapped wire.  Exciting to see the results - different each time.  Just need to take some good photos which will appear on here eventually.

I've spent the past few months experimenting with wax/wire/lint/porcelain/  - mixing various elements of my life into my work.  Starting to fine-tune pieces that should be in the final exhibition - although I usually get waylaid discovering other uses for 'bits'. Getting used to the look of horror on technicians faces when asked to fire unknown/untested materials (although they are a fantastic help with advice and support).  Images to be uploaded shortly - if I can get them small/clear enough.   

Trying to do some work at home - got a nasty bug. Playing around with bits of wire/wool but would rather be in the college (or preferably in bed). Notice that a few other artists on the AA2A also enjoy playing with 'stuff' - inspiration comes at the strangest times.  Making a collection of obscure things that might be incorporated into a hanging sculpture.

I'm not very good at uploading (downloading?) images, mine appear to be enormous but think I've finally got the hang of it.   Hope I can convey the obsessive rolling of paper/wire that goes into my work.   Spent a good few hours in the workshop stirring wax and generally dipping whatever came to hand.  Fascinating to see the way wax adheres and dries on different textures - quickly on wire and paper - hours on lint/fluff. 

Working on small wire sculptures/pieces intended for further experimentation in the workshops.  Packing my bags for a few weeks away - don't know what security will make of my wire/

Finally managed to upload a photo - this is not my forte. The second step can't be far behind.