Maeva Collins

The creative process has always been a focus of my life.

In the past, I have danced, taught classical ballet and contemporary dance, painted, ridden in dressage competitions, coached dressage and have been an Equine Canada dressage judge.

Although quite different, they all require an eye for good form and an appreciation for beauty and movement. Clay for me has been a truly free form of creativity.

Inspiration comes from my surroundings - the beautiful Comox Valley on Vancouver Island. Living on a small acreage allows me the freedom to pit fire and wood fire my creations. In both cases I rely on the firing process to produce dramatic patterns that draw the viewer in; nature never leaves the same mark twice.

Following a firing, I have found, in spite of the careful planning and preparation, there are always more questions than answers.

Pit Fired Vessels: They have no glaze. The surface shine is due to the time spent burnishing the post with a stone during the leather hard stage and again when dry.

The colour comes from the fire and the combustibles used such as sawdust, seaweed, dog food and oxides such as copper. This type of firing produces a non-functional vessel. They should only be used as decorative pieces or urns. Not to hold liquids or food. If after a time this vessel becomes a little dull, a light coast of paste wax and a good polishing will revive it.

It’s mesmerizing to watch a ball of clay transformed into a beautiful vessel.