Magnetic Clay
Ceramic artists working with magnetic clay can play with the forces of nature to create fantastical structures.
Dutch designer Jólan van der Wiel uses a ceramic mixture that contains iron filings. A super magnet placed above his work space causes the magnetic slip to reach towards the magnet, or detach from his applicator and stick to the magnet. The magnet helps shape and form an organic-looking structure. The material cures within a half hour.
Below are three short videos which show Jolan's working process with this special concoction.
Below, Art Insider’s video featuring the NYC-based ceramic artist Sabri Ben-Achour shows his playful manipulation of magnetic clay to create pieces inspired by natural forms.
“The functional pottery that I was taught as I was growing up had a Japanese aesthetic to it. There’s this terms in Japanese called Wabi Sabi, which means just a little bit off. But not ‘off’ in a mistake way. It’s not off in a ‘that’s wrong’ way. It’s ‘off’ in an artistic way and a natural way. I think I strive for that too, but in my own way….I try and unlock what the natural world has to show us.” Sabri Ben-Achour
· Don't miss: American Crafts, Crafting Resources, and Craft Museums.
Below are some popular books on contemporary and ground-breaking new practices in ceramics. Click on a book cover for further information. The Brooklyn Refinery is reader-supported. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases (at no extra cost to you).
 Vitamin C: Clay + Ceramic in Contemporary Art by Clare Lilley |  |  The Essential Guide to Mold Making & Slip Casting by Andrew Martin |  The Ceramics Bible: The Complete Guide to Materials and Techniques by Louisa Taylor |
 Paperclay: Art and Practice (The New Ceramics) by Rosette Gault |  |  |  |
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