Christy Eubank

As the sole potter at Oak Trace Pottery, I have been throwing pots for 10 years now. I am primarily self taught but I have taken classes at a local Community College and several workshops to expand my knowledge. I have explored many areas of pottery but there are so many directions clay can take you in that I could easily spend another 10 years without learning all there is to know about clay, decorating, firing, etc.
Currently, I do the majority of my work on the wheel, and since I personally enjoy several different firing techniques I always have an eclectic selection of pots. These normally include electric, gas, and raku fired wares. In addition, I use a wide assortment of glazes, so I get a different look with each firing technique.
My most recent focus has been on crystalline glazes. I spent 2 years researching and testing numerous firing schedules and glazes before finally developing 3 base colors. Crystalline is very challenging process in equal parts due to both the glaze itself and the firing program. Also, each piece will have its own glaze “catcher” attached to the bottom of the pot - which gets cut off with a blow torch upon cooling. Due to the nature of the firing process part of the glaze flows off the pot and the catcher is needed to contain this run off. The crystals are developed thru a combination of a specific glaze recipe and delicate firing schedule that allows the glaze to separate leaving behind the zinc-silica seeds which then grow into the crystals when soaked. What I love most is the depth of the glaze colors, and the fact that each piece will always be completely unique.
The bulk of my remaining work is focused in practical, functional items which include: bake ware, serving dishes, dinner ware, and kitchen items. Most pieces are wheel thrown, but I do take a break occasionally to do some hand building. If I am decorating with underglazes, such as the horse example below, I first pencil sketch on the bisque fired item and then hand paint with the underglaze. These items are covered with a protective clear glaze. They are fired in the kiln appropriate to the clay body along with any of the color glazed pots. These pots are primarily functional in nature and meant to be used. They are lead free, ovenproof, dishwasher, and microwave safe.

Phone/Fax: 919-663-3040
Website
Email: oaktrace@aol.com