I really like the new ‘coupe’ rimless plate shape I’ve been making for the ‘Raiders’, so I’ve made some for myself lately, using my red earthenware clay. On one I chose to paint the surface with white porcelain slip (which I know ‘fits’) and then applied geometrical shapes. It is really an experiment to see if the colours jump out or retreat, and my black outlines do not precisely follow the shapes. Probably I’m influenced by Eric’s conversation about ‘Dazzle’ Art that seeks to break up the form on which it’s painted, like camouflage. I’ve retained the canvas surface that the slab roller leaves on the back and enhanced it with my usual terra sigillata finish. The glazed front and softer satin back feels nice.

On another I chose to keep a reminder of the hollyhocks in my garden that have performed so well this year. Again, there’s a white surface first, then pink slip. I coated the design with latex resist, leaving a little of the white around the flowers, and painted the background with blue. I was inspired by a photo I took of the plant in front of our neighbour’s newly painted grey house.

My lilies were also splendid this year but this ‘Stargazer’ only produced a couple of flowers. Isn’t it gorgeous? Years ago, when I was at Emily Carr IAD, I made an etching of the same flower from one that I bought in the market, for a print-making assignment. So drawing it again brought back happy memories. Some of my family members have copies of that print edition but I don’t think I do!

The little triangular Robin dish is just for fun – painted with earthenware slips. You can see my kiln shed in the photo.