We opened a kiln this morning. It contained Francine’s large platters and some large vases. These vases continue Francine’s practice of joining thrown pieces together as well as designing pieces with built in “frogs” that can showcase flowers more effectively and dramatically. A new departure for Francine are two “Pandemic” vases. Although outwardly having similarities in shape and design to other pieces she has made, these vases have an entirely new decorative motif - the virus. The energetic decorative marks are interpretations of the virus itself and the “word balloons” of air that incorporate the handles reference the spread of the virus through speech and breath.
Even though these are very serious pieces, Francine’s usual humor, sophisticated design and wit take precedence over the frightening subject matter.
The top two vases are the Pandemic Vases, shown in front and back views. They all are made from porcelain, use sgrafitto technique, glazes and slips. The first piece is 10” tall and 9” wide. The second piece is 8” tall. The last piece is 11” tall.