FUNCTIONAL SCULPTURE

GLAZE TESTS II
Available at Bess Paddington

Oval Jug with Flowers. 2025
Stoneware. Glaze and underglaze.
Wheel formed and altered.
32 x 21 x 25cm

Hooped Rotar Jug. 2025
Stoneware. Glaze and underglaze.
Wheel formed and altered.
36 x 20 x 23cm

Jump Handle Vase. 2025
Stoneware. Glaze and underglaze.
Wheel formed and altered.
27 x 15 x 36cm

Stub-Handle Vase. 2025
Stoneware. Glaze and underglaze.
Wheel formed and altered.
19 x 15 x 35 cm

Tom Mason’s Glaze Tests explore experimental jug and vase forms through wheel-thrown alterations, compressed-clay handles, and responsive studio glazes that record interactions between brushwork, clay body, and kiln chemistry. The collection comprises five pieces that investigate ceramic production processes, producing both distinct forms and responsive glaze surfaces. In some cases, glaze formula names are written directly onto the pieces for future reference. The works are wheel-thrown and altered into jug and vase forms, with handles made from the compressed clay rings left behind after removing the batts from the wheel head. Glazing becomes the primary site of investigation, observing how studio glazes interact with brushwork, clay body, and kiln chemistry.

Functional Sculpture acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of Country throughout Australia. We pay our respects to Elders past and present. We recognise the First Peoples of this Nation and their ongoing cultural and spiritual connections to the lands, waters, seas, skies, and communities.