PROCESS
It all starts with a photograph taken with the perfect light. Mornings and evenings have the best light as the colors are richer and the shadows more dramatic. I prefer to work with my own photographs but, when geographically unavailable, will with work with the client to utilize theirs. It is important to capture the essence of the home at the right angle, the right light and the right setting. Artistic license is taken to eliminate or alter components that either add or detract from the overall composition.
The image is transferred to the porcelain and finely outlined in dark grey. The platter is then fired to permanently set the lines into the glaze. Thin washes of china paint are then applied to the entire image and left to air dry for several days. It is imperative that the paint have time to dry as the paints are not permanent until fired. Painting over areas that have not had time to dry will 'lift' the previous paint, compromising all the work done in that area.
More and more layers are built up with each successive painting. The platter will go through additional firings as it will fuse the paint into the glaze. It is not uncommon for portraits to go through 3 to 5 firings.
Each successive layer of paint is what creates the characteristic luminosity which sets these Family Heirlooms apart from all other mediums.
Each successive layer of paint is what creates the characteristic luminosity which sets these Family Heirlooms apart from all other mediums.
There is a choice of platters and fonts to suit every taste. The title can be the street address, the historical name or the family's name.
The image on the fired porcelain is permanent and will not fade or deteriorate; it will stay luminous and lustrous forever.
The image on the fired porcelain is permanent and will not fade or deteriorate; it will stay luminous and lustrous forever.