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La Familia: A Mother's Vigil in Raku
"La Familia" is an intimate ceramic sculpture depicting a mother penguin and her egg—a powerful symbol of unwavering devotion and new life.

The primal subject is captured through the dramatic Raku firing process. In Raku, the red-hot piece is removed from the kiln and placed into combustibles, resulting in an unpredictable, alchemical transformation. This technique creates the sculpture's distinctive look: The clay not covered by glaze is smoke-infused, becoming a rich, matte black.

Vibrant orange and yellow glazes around the face are retained, symbolizing the life force and warmth of the mother's protective gaze.

My intention was to highlight the instinctive act of nurturing. The intensity and risk inherent in the Raku process mirror the stress and dedication of this parental vigil. It is a tribute to commitment, the fragility of beginnings, and the fierce love that sustains life.

Material Ceramic
Size 7.5H x 3.5W x 4.5L