Metal Clay Category / Grand Prize Winner

Far East

Artist: Lisa Pavelka (Las Vegas, NV)
Grand Prize / First Place, Metal Clay

"My inspiration was based on a love of Asian design motifs. My intention was to have a piece that captured the mystery of Asia, and its manmade and natural beauty. The bamboo arch symbolizes the natural beauty of this area of the world, while the Asian calligraphy represents the manmade elements that are a testament to what we can create. The filigree work bridges the two and can be viewed as either the work of a human hand or the fine patterning of a skeletal leaf. I wanted the piece to incorporate several processes that make metal clay versatile, including: hand forming, molding, stamping, filigree work and engraving. All of these elements were used in combination to create a feeling of flow within a symmetrical framework.

"It took a full 10-hour day of creating and combining the various elements, firing and polishing. By planning the design carefully beforehand, and having all tools and materials needed to execute the piece nearby and arranged in the order in which they would be used, I found that I encountered no obstacles in creating this piece. I strictly adhered to established Art Clay™ techniques for foundation forming, proper dehydration, connection methods, pre/post refinement work, patina and proper firing times. The additional embellishment of topaz crystals and a pearl give a sense of movement to the piece." -- Lisa Pavelka

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