grant gelhardt

I am drawn to pit firing because I see each firing as an adventure. As the name suggests, the pots are placed in pit dug into the earth and then a bonfire is built around the pots. I use different types of clay and add chemicals and various combustible materials to the fire and the results are unique pieces of ceramic art. When I am sitting around the fire pit, I am able to affect what the results may be, but the final results are really up to the whim of the fire. Each piece of pottery takes its own journey through the firing process and finding itself – each is a unique statement. There are no two pieces that are alike, nor would I ever want any two pieces to be the same. I see the process as a journey and an adventure. I will continue my adventure, sitting by the fire with a glass of wine in one hand and a fire poker in the other – enjoying the journey.