Some work by Liliana Ovalle

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info@lilianaovalle.com

Sinkhole Vessels: The Process

The project originated from a personal interest in sinkholes. This phenomena, from which we hear sensational news every now and then, reveals an underlying space of unknown dimensions. How could these dark sudden topographies be translated into vessels? The initial concept was enriched and developed through the collaboration with Colectivo 1050º, whose thorough knowledge and experience with the local ceramists of Oaxaca enabled the execution of the clay pieces.

The vessels were crafted inTlapazola by the Mateo Family: Dorotea, Alberta, Macrina, Angelina, Elia and Amalia, a group of highly skilled ceramists who inherited ancestral techniques that are deeply embedded in the local culture.

More about traditional ceramics of Oaxaca...

Photographies by Kytzhia Barrera and Liliana Ovalle.

Foam models were documented and sent to the ceramists in Tlapazola, Oaxaca.

Bi-dimensional drawings were translated with the aid of measured wooden sticks.

Alberta and Dorotea mold the the vessels using the ¨cone" tecnique. The clay is molded on plates balanced on rocks and then spun by hand.

Basic tools, such as leather and corn cobs, are used for shaping and spinning the clay.

The shape of the vessels is refined while the clay is drying.

Once the pieces were dried and fired for a first time, a second "open" fire was made to blacken out the vessels.

The tones and gradients of each vessel were controlled by exposing them directly to the flame or the burning ashes. The "blackening" process lasts approximately one hour.

Each wooden frame was custom made to embrace and support each vessel.

Final fitting of the ceramic pieces into the oak frames.