I started to work on bas relief or low relief carving before I knew what it was called. A neighbour in Lethbridge taught me the basics of leather carving when I was in Jr. High School. I earned my way through high school and some of art school making ladies purses and wallets. Sixty years later I am still trying …
Making Bowls Part III – Sprigging
In these videos, my technique of sprigging is shown here for the first time. Before watching, let me share what I have learned about sprigging. Chinese potters have used a technique for hundreds of years, but my own European background made me look there for the secrets of sprigging technique. You have to be careful when looking at “factory” ceramics …
Making Bowls – Part II Trimming and Slip Decoration
I’ve placed two more videos on the site that add to a series of technical videos intended for both students and those interested in learning how I make and decorate bowls. In the video of me trimming a thrown bowl, I mention that if you do not like to trim pots, you should avoid throwing with porcelain. I used to …
About Morgan
I have been asked frequently to explain how Morgan glaze works. Truth be known, I don’t know all that much, except that I like it. I am also asked why I can like a glaze like Morgan, and at the same time like a glaze like my HH celadon. The celadon is following in the traditional steps of Song Chinese …
Video – Harlan at The Throwing Wheel
I have been making ceramics for almost 50 years. I used to do a lot of weekend workshops all across Canada encouraging potters to use and enjoy porcelain. In almost every workshop I was asked to make one of these large platters, because the method is a little unique, and takes some practice to do it well. I have to …
Glazing
I’ve added another technical page that discusses how I glaze my work. If you can believe it, I’ve been using an old Electrolux vacuum as long as I can remember. For those who are interested, check out the technical page on glazing. This Chinese sprayer is handmade on the streets of Jingdezhen and is commonly used for glazes that are …
HH Celadon
For those students, teachers and potters who have an interest in what I have been doing for the last 45 years, I have added another technical page that provides information regarding my HH Celadon Glaze. Please have a look at the HH Celadon glaze technical page if you are interested in the evolution and formulae for this signature glaze. Harlan …