Dave Raynalds

1971 - 74: BS Portland State University Earth Science
1985 - Present: Woodworker, cabinet maker, fine arts frame
1996 - Present: Amateur Astronomer
2010 - Present: Student in ceramics MAC

My training in geology, my woodworking experience, and the attention I�ve paid to the night sky as an amateur astronomer have all influenced my ceramics. As a geology student, I learned to appreciate natural forms and recognize incongruities in nature, which was very useful in my ceramics work.

My career as a woodworker �its construction order, use of tools, and geometry�allows me to build special tools, jigs, and molds for developing my ceramic pieces. When I start a new piece I start with basic shapes: cubes, spheres, crystal forms, geometric and asymmetrical shapes, and �accidents.� These beginnings often remind me of a theme or story which I then investigate.

Recently painting with watercolor has influenced my use of slips and choice of platter forms that allow more room for painting on the clay. The limited palette of high fire glazes has encouraged me to find solutions to match the images I want to present.

LINKS:

- Portland Oregon & Northwest Astronomers Web Sites

- Lumberjocks - woodworking showcase

- Archive of the Baidarka mailing list

- Wenaha Gallery