Artistry of Neriage: A Symphony in Clay
Pottery, as an art form, encompasses an endless array of techniques and styles that have been refined over centuries. One such technique that has mesmerized artists and enthusiasts alike is "Neriage." This technique is characterized by marbling different coloured clay together through throwing on the wheel. Neriage is more than just a pottery technique; it's a breathtaking symphony in clay that has stood the test of time.
The Essence of Neriage:
Neriagen is a pottery technique that involves the deliberate layering and blending of differently colored clay bodies to create visually stunning patterns and designs. Neriage is commonly confused with Nerikomi and the two words are often used interchangeably, they are however distinctly different techniques. They are both methods of mixing clay to create a marbled finished piece but they emply quite different methods.
Neriage vs Nerikome:
The names themself lay out the differences, the prefix “Neri” means to mix, and “age” means to pull up. Neiage literally means mix by pulling up, referring to the way the walls of a put are pulled up when throwing on the wheel. Whereas Nerikome refers to mixing by kneading, describing the process where different colored clays are layered and compressed to construct a solid block with a pattern running through the inside. Ranging from simple stripes to marbled swirls to intricate images, the design is revealed when the block is sliced in a cross-section. These pieces of patterned clay can be shaped and formed to create larger works.
The Process:
Creating Neriage pottery requires both patience and precision. Here's a glimpse into the step-by-step process:
Clay Selection: Artists carefully choose clay bodies with different colors, textures, and firing properties. These clays will form the basis of the patterns.
The chosen clays are combined to create balls ready to throw with. It is important not to mix the clays together too thoroughly. I like to take one layer of dark clay and add a layer of lighter clay, I then repeat this once more so I have four layers in total. I then roughly shape this into a ball for throwing, by slapping the clays together, this will eliminate any large air pockets without having to wedge the clay, as this will cause the two colours to mix too much.
Next, the piece is thrown on the wheel, following the usual process. It’s important to note that the more you center your clay, the more the colours will mix. Every time you cone the clay up and compress it back down it will mix them together. I try and cone the clay up just twice.
Once the clay is centered the piece is opened and walls pulled up. As you pull up the walls you will see the extent of the marbling of the clays.
At this point, the piece will be covered in slip from the throwing and the marble pattern will be obscured. Simple take a tool such as a metal rib and, while the piece is still on the wheel, scrape the rib over the surface of the piece, inside and out, removing the slip and revealing the beautiful marbled clay.
Drying and Firing: The formed pottery is allowed to dry thoroughly before undergoing the firing process. The kiln transforms the clay into its final ceramic state, solidifying the patterns and colors for eternity.
The Magic of Variability:
What makes Neriage truly captivating is its inherent variability. No two pieces of Neriage pottery are identical. The play of colors, the arrangement of patterns, and the unexpected surprises that emerge during the process contribute to the uniqueness of each creation. This unpredictability lends an air of wonderment to Neriage pottery, making it a treasure for both creators and collectors.
Embracing the Tradition:
While Neriage has roots in various cultures, including Japan and Korea, modern potters have embraced this technique to create contemporary masterpieces. By marrying traditional methods with innovative designs, artists breathe new life into a time-honored technique, ensuring its relevance and allure for generations to come.
In the world of pottery, Neriage stands as a testament to the power of creativity and the limitless possibilities that clay holds. Its rich history, captivating process, and enchanting outcomes make Neriage a truly remarkable technique—an ode to the beauty that can emerge when different elements come together in perfect harmony. So, whether you're an aspiring potter or an appreciator of fine art, take a moment to marvel at the symphony in clay that is Neriage.