THOMAS HOADLEY
Working the Clay Within
“My initial attraction to the nerikomi technique came from its organic union of pattern and structure… The natural world abounds with these unions, and as a result, offers endless inspiration for pattern making.”
Originally set out to be an architect, artist, Thomas Hoadley, was working in an architectural firm in Boston when he first wandered into a ceramic art gallery. The array of Japanese pottery in the space inspired him to pursue the work we know him for today – the art of Nerikomi Pottery, a Japanese style of hand building and pattern construction.
Soon after Hoadley was introduced to nerikomi, he began to experiment with his own patterns and colors. Beginning with white porcelain, Hoadley wedges oxides and stains into the wet clay to create an intended palette of deep color. Stacking layers of colored clay together, the “loaves” are cut into slabs, which form the structure of the piece. After ongoing sanding, firing and sanding again, the piece is complete.
One bowl may take the artist as long as two weeks to complete. Working to solve several areas of interest, Hoadley aspires to unify solutions to visual obstacles through immense artistry and dedication to his craft.