The Patz Process Ceramic Technique recognized by the American Ceramic Society was developed by Patz Fowle in 1970. Her original handbuilding technique is used to connect organic clay forms to create ceramic sculpture. Unlike the "score & slip" method, her technique utilizes inverted cone openings, slip, and tapered tips for strong, secure attachments in clay.
Fowle has taught her technique to art educators and students, Nationally, and Internationally through:
The National Endowment for the Arts
The National Art Education Association
The American School in Japan
Savannah College of Art & Design
Everson Museum of Art, New York
SC Arts Commission
SC Art Education Association
and other public schools and institutions.
Below are a few Patz Process Ceramic Technique, highlights
Making slip
To add appendages like a head or legs to a clay form, rub a drop or two of water around the outside of inverted cone openings to create slip. Rub water onto the clay until the shine goes away! This sticky, matte substance is "slip" or clay glue.
Now, the real fun begins as you add detail, character and expression to your sculpture.
Tapered tip
Smooth
the seams
Make a cylinder with a tapered tip on one end. Add slip to the tip then, with firm pressure, press the tapered tip onto the opening you made in the clay. Once things are attached, smooth over all seams where clay is joined for strength and aesthetic value.
Before drying your work, make sure to create a hole that goes at least 1/2 way into the belly of the animal to allow trapped air and moisture to escape before kiln firing. Enjoy your cool, one-of-a-kind, handbuilt sculpture!
Patz Process Ceramic Technique
Once considered a groundbreaking approach to handbuilding in clay, the Patz Process Ceramic Technique has become part of the rich heritage of American Ceramic Techniques. With a strong focus on advancing Southern Ceramic Arts, Fowle hopes that this exciting art form will continue to inspire creativity in the ceramic arts for many generations to come.
of the American Ceramic Society