Sculpting high heels.

It’s truly exciting to merge two of my biggest passions: fashion design and pottery. When I started working with clay, I immediately thought about how I could bring my fashion design past into my pottery present. And what better way to do that than by sculpting something as iconic and architecturally interesting as a high heel? It’s not just about making a shoe; it’s about transforming an everyday object into a piece of art that tells a story. Creating a sculpted heel in ceramics comes with its own unique set of challenges, much different from designing a wearable shoe. For starters, clay has a mind of its own! Achieving the delicate balance and intricate curves of a heel, while ensuring it has enough structural integrity to survive the drying and firing processes, is a real test of skill and patience. I’ve learned so much about engineering even the smallest details to prevent warping or cracking. It’s a constant dance between artistic vision and the material's limitations. My inspiration often comes from avant-garde shoe designs or even architectural elements. I love experimenting with different textures and forms that you wouldn't typically see in functional pottery. The goal is to evoke a sense of elegance and drama, just like a statement heel on a runway. Each piece starts with a rough sketch, then I move to building it up coil by coil, or sometimes carving it out from a solid block of clay, refining the shape centimeter by centimeter. Tools are crucial here – tiny carving tools, spatulas, and even household items help me achieve the precision I'm looking for. Preparing for the bisque firing is always a nerve-wracking but exciting time. This initial firing transforms the fragile greenware into a more durable, porous state, ready for glazing. It’s the make-or-break moment where all the hard work pays off, or sometimes, you learn valuable lessons from unexpected outcomes. The anticipation of opening the kiln is immense, hoping that my sculpted heels have successfully made it through, ready for the next stage of their ceramic journey. For anyone looking to explore sculptural ceramics, especially intricate forms like a sculpted heel, my advice is to embrace experimentation. Don't be afraid to fail; each crack or collapse is a learning opportunity. Start with simpler forms to understand your clay, and gradually work your way up to more complex designs. It’s a rewarding process that allows you to bring your unique vision to life, blending different artistic disciplines into something truly your own.