Inspired by studies and sketches of her own chickens, Alison’s work captures the movement, characteristics and essence of her subject using heavily grogged stoneware paper clay; a compound of slip (liquid clay) and paper pulp, to which grog (ground, fired clay) is added for strength and texture.
The sculptures are individually created using soft, flexible slabs of paper clay, built over an armature to form the body, to which highly textured pieces are applied. A white porcelain slip is lightly brushed over the surface; leaving some of the clay body visible and red underglaze colour added as highlights, before the first, biscuit, firing. An oxide wash is then applied to enhance the surface textures, giving added depth; before the final firing, in an electric kiln, to 1260˚C.