Clay art’s popularity is rising day by day as more people are attracted to it. This article is everything about modelling clay, from its history to the materials like clay, fine loop, guitar loop and twisted wire rake used in the process.
History of clay
Clay modelling did not start as an art. Its use was first to make necessary objects and utensils. In ancient history, clay was used to mould daily things and vessels. Archaeologists considered it as a revolution to use clay to develop utensils from it. These utensils are generally used for cooking meals. Clay, for sure, upgraded the standard of living in ancient times.
The technique of using machines to shape clay is a recent innovation. In the beginning, everything was manual. Flat dried slabs of mud were pasted together with hand to form a vase. Later, the spinning wheel was invented. Here, wet clay is placed on the wheel’s centre and carved to the desired shape with the help of a hand. Ceramists will pour some water into this rotating clay to obtain perfectly carved figures.
Clay modelling became popular due to globalization. The phenomenon gave it more expansion and exposure. Different styles of sculpting were invented in other parts of the world. It is a known fact that many civilizations consider this as fine art. It represents the culture and also feeds to the industrial growth of the country.
How to master clay modelling
People need much research in modelling clay to excel in it. From clay selection to the temperature of the atmosphere, everything needs attention.
1)Selection of clay
Be careful in the process of selecting the clay because it gives the product texture and finishing. Do some research on different types of clay available in the market. Consider factors like availability of firing, the shape of the object to be created, and the atmosphere’s temperature before selecting the clay.
2)Clear vision of the model
Have a clear idea of the object that is going to be created. A lack of a clear picture will hurt the sculpting part. It is an art that needs clarity to get expected results. A well-planned idea will turn into a well-executed piece of art.
3)Consistency is the key
The density and consistency of the clay are vital to carve the best out of it. If it is wet, it will not give any shape, and if it is dry, there is a high chance of cracking. There are easy tricks to check the clay’s consistency.
4)Be a pro in hand movements
This step needs some amount of practice. Practice gives perfection in hand movements resulting in the formation of the best art. To obtain fascinating objects from clay, learn specific finger movements.
5)Get professional help
There are plenty of tutorials available online. Get it into one of these art studios and learn clay modelling with professional help. It will help to achieve the goal faster.
Clay modelling Tools
Buying first-class quality clay is the crucial thing in this art. Try ceramic clay or wax polymer-based clay. Self-hardening clay and ceramic pottery clay, too, are good options. Other than that, try to purchase the tools listed below, which gives perfection to the desired object.
1) Potter’s wheel
2) Mini wire brush
3) Fine Lopp
4) Guitar Loop
5) Wire tipped tool
6) Twisted wire rake
