MARIA RAQUEL MORALES S.

"Porcelain and sometimes a dark stoneware."

Primary forming method?

"Mostly hand-building with coils. I also like to use the Potter’s Wheel for small functional pieces."

Primary firing temperature?

" Cone 6-7 electric."

Favorite surface treatment?

"Carving, creating textures and finishes with underglazes."

" Nature , life events. 

For me is a way of communication. Sometimes by telling a story or message. Being able to work with my hands is a privilege. Growing-up, my parents would show us and take us to places where people worked, created art and life, and this instilled in me an admiration for the environment and for the work of artisans. As a young girl, I always wanted to be a maker and create, and though I would do this as a child, being able to do this work full-time is what I want to do. I draw inspiration from my love of nature, animals and people."

Did you come to ceramics from a different career? Tell us about your journey to a ceramics career.

" I moved from Guatemala City in 1982 after finishing university. I moved to Topeka, Kansas where I started taking anthropology classes as a non- traditional student at Washburn University. The opportunity came at this moment where I took my first ceramic class and after some time decided to major in fine arts, and received my BFA. I have been taking workshops and classes to improve my skills and knowledge."

"I have been part of several group studios and have been able to share my experience and knowledge with other artists.  I enjoy interacting with others, and learning from each other. "

What’s the best advice you’ve been given by a fellow maker, mentor, or teacher?

“I was very lucky to have been a student of Ceramist Glenda Taylor, and she would say, “one should work all the time because inspiration comes as one touches the clay.” While I am working, I often recall the words and remarks from instructors and professors, and it helps me see my work in a more critical and objective manner."