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Simplicity ... meet Functionality

About the artist ...

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Born and raised in Huntington Beach, CA, the artist, Beth Strauss, underwent 2 transplants: first, to Berkeley, CA, then to Philadelphia, PA. She has worked in ceramic studios on both the east coast and west coast, combining different styles and techniques experienced on both coasts. Her style: simple and functional.

The passion behind the art ...

"Pottery has enabled me to tap into my creative desires and passions. It is my zen space ... the space where the stresses of life get pushed aside".

"The exciting thing about pottery is, no matter how long you've done it or how good you get ... there is ALWAYS something more to learn. There are always new ways to challenge yourself. There are always artists who will inspire new paths of creativity".

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Gas Fire

Gas firing, also known as "reduction", is the burning of chemically combined oxygen in the clay and glazed material. This technique gives reduction fired pottery unique characteristics.

Soda Fire

Soda firing is an atmospheric firing technique where "soda" is introduced into the kiln near top temperature (2350 degrees). The soda used: sodium bi-carbonate and sodium carbonate, also known as soda ash. Towards the end of the firing, a solution of "soda" is sprayed into the kiln with a garden-sprayer. The sodium vapor combines with the silica in clay to form sodium-silicate glaze.

Wood Fire

Wood fired pottery is the oldest method of firing clay, and the most labor intensive. This technique takes 2-3 days of stoking (putting wood into the kiln) in 5-10 minute intervals, to achieve a maximum temperature of 2400 degrees. Wood burning creates ash, which floats through the atmosphere of the kiln and lands on the surfaces of the pottery. The ash then melts and creates an ash glaze.