The interchangeable parts (handle, foot, etc) and intimate scale make the mug a perfect testing ground for larger design ideas. In my latest batch of mugs I explored an asymmetric scheme that I discovered the last time through my making cycle. In this scheme I heavily load the handle side of the mug with decoration while I leave the non handle side bare. The negative space that is created lets the decoration breath. This is very similar to tension/release themes in music where players contrast their complex melodies/rhythms with points of stillness. I often find I learn visual art through listening to music. Any one else find they benefit from cross disciplinary learning?
Check out my video explaining the process for decorating a mug with this scheme. Click here to see the Decorating a mug with under glazes and sgraffito video.
![](https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEia8LCgMwRcRF2z7AqhX9SvhhvOzYXtWCm0iqSlYdIw2p-pwgGRqh8ejhpZQI0hlXO5bYFX_VXX524peKGQPWv9kTUVEI812HhRO7Oo_v3mhXZ5jPtBYy46bguuWxMQ-NXOkkKvPOq885y4/s640/Kohikiplain.jpg)
Undecorated mug with vertical carving on the lower third. The carving subdivides the space setting up the decoration.
![](https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjElg4HGKQ__ckCptDJ7wslrmbv1FI4kggyWYVYGIzgqlidSkvt1ctWwOquqeTRw7_dInjjRHRIUzlr1AT_4_AZ-_zqQa5fbhHuPYA8sYtAG6lNSQCh9SsRdSzh2L6x5SHMnwZ_m-Fd6BeC/s640/Kohikidecosideview.jpg)
love your video! very inspirational!
ReplyDeleteHey Lisa, Glad you are enjoying the video. Thanks for reading my blog. I appreciate the support. Hope your doing well.
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