I let my imagination run wild and sculpt as I stock the ideas. I like ‘earth clay’; it’s touch and feel stimulates me. More so, the moulding charges the atmosphere with creativity, fun, and imagination.
‘My Owl’; I like very much.
Playing up on the clay, I create a charismatic art form to put the ideas to reality.I infuse freedom in my life to instil natural ability. I am happy in the creation; a physical representation of my emotions.
An artist, a hobbyist-I am self-taught.The art galleries of Delhi fascinate me. I have learned a lot from Ghari, Triveni and Srjan; also shared a little with the students of Art at Jamia Millia University. I learn from others.
- Shaping and creating three-dimensional forms using clay is what ‘clay modelling’ is.
‘Modeling clay’ is a cluster of malleable products used for sculpting and crafting by hobbyists and professionals alike.
Plasticine is a putty-like modelling material made from calcium salts, petroleum jelly and maybe some aliphatic compounds. Other variants may be earth clay, play dough, air-dry clay, polymer clay, sculpting clay, sculptor’s wax and alike. Terra cotta, earthenware, and stoneware are also the options.
For me; the ease of handling the ‘air dry clay’ makes it first choice. Besides being non-toxic, it does not require much time for drying. Polymer clay (PVC base) is yet another choice–easy to ply and mould.
- Modelling tools bring out the desired effects in the clay creations.
Clay can be tricked in hands; and with tools like wire brushes and knives. Sculpting tools, blending tools and pottery tools also come in handy. To shape and manoeuvre, I choose my own appliance; facilitating intricate forms and details with precision and control.
Different parts and bits of the clay are blended seamlessly, and the surfaceis smoothened.Clay can also be worked with tools for blending, texturing, thinning, scraping, poking, and cutting.
Carving tools are conducive to trimming and detailing in the clay. Intricate patterns, lines, and contours enhance depth on the surface of the clay.
The curves, the cuts, the shapes – the colour reflection; all work to obtain a unique sculpture. Adding texture and details enhances the visual interest.
- ‘Hand building’ is- shaping the clay by hand;without wheel throwing.Materials such as metal wires, various salts, and minerals can be added to create specific colours and textures.
Coiling and pinching may devise innovations; besides adding clay on (additive) or taking it away (subtractive).Adding texture and details instils depth and dimension. Various patterns and notches enhance the overall aesthetics of the sculpture.
Overall ‘Finish’ is further enhanced by sanding, buffing, or applying a glossy or matte sealer.
- Looking at the vibrant works of distinct artists and what art is great is a futile exercise! Much art is lost in time.
Any piece of art is superb at this moment in time.I never compare my art to other artist’s work, though I feel envious at times. If I admire some artwork, I study the piece for what makes it special in my eyes.
I wonder if ‘playing clay’ helps me sustain my agility; and my hand-eye coordination. Aged, I hope my motor skills live longer through practice and repetition.
Even my body language may show less of my real enjoyment. Above all, this hands-on activity boosts my self-esteem with a deep sense of accomplishment.I wonder how I express some unique ideas and unleash my imagination. The possibilities are endless.
For me, whatever the theme, goes in tandem with my ‘stray thoughts’. With my imagination, I am sure; I can sculpt a one-of-a-kind masterpiece like ‘My Owl’
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https://hillpost.in/2017/12/of-owls-of-geneva/109924/
Prof. (Er.) Chander P Mahajan is an art critic & a free lance journalist. The Environmentalist stays in Shimla and Dalhousie, Himachal Pradesh, India.
