Ceramic artist Carol Long masterfully captures the delicate intricacy of nature in her detailed ceramic sculptures. Her organic forms, with twisting spouts and swirling handles, often take the shape of insects and wildlife. Even when they don’t directly mimic creatures, her vessels pay homage to the spectacularity of flora and fauna. Each ornate piece undergoes painstaking craftsmanship, whether thrown on the wheel or meticulously built from slabs and extrusions. The resulting vessels feature complex patterns of ornamentation that mirror those found naturally in the world. Long’s creative process involves pushing forms to look fluid, extending handles into space, and carefully applying slip trail and glaze surface designs to bring each piece together. The final touch involves antiquing them to appear as if they’ve emerged from a magical atmospheric firing.
Long’s ceramic vessels, whether towering vases or small lidded bowls, exude fluidity and expressiveness. Their curving lines, rippling handles, and textured bases give them a life of their own — like whimsical creatures born from the artist’s hands. Melding the decadence of Art Nouveau with the whimsy of Alice in Wonderland, Long’s work invites viewers to explore a world where clay becomes a canvas for organic beauty. Whether you’re drawn to the fungi-inspired gills or the bushy bunny tails, each piece carries a touch of magic and a celebration of the natural world
I am inspired by botanical life and hidden aspects of nature. I emulate my inspirations with an elaborate flow of shape, line, and texture. My work begins with shape and form. Depth is added through texture. Intricate slip application and glazing brings organic unity to the finished piece.
Carol Long
More info: Website, Instagram.
