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1) seeking porcelain production potters, 2) seeking employment,

updated sun 12 aug 01

 

Darcy Giesseman on sat 11 aug 01

3) Portable propane/"alternative fuel" kilns

Dear fellow artisans,

My name is Darcy Giesseman. I very recently joined the Clayart list. I am
presently physically located in extreme Southwestern Michigan, and near
Indiana and Illinois.

My connection with clay-related activities is that of being a
porcelain/china painter. I also have an interest in glass-related Arts, in
addition to other pursuits.

I apologize in advance if some of you may be offended by my inquiry.
However, I am seeking production potters who work in porcelain and who would
be interested in producing custom historic replications of glazed blanks or
of my own original creations for me. Naturally, I'd prefer "wholesale"
prices as I hope to paint and resell the completed pieces. My style of
painting is usually historically oriented.

If there are interested porcelain potters near me that would be great, but
if there are none then I'd be willing to correspond with interested persons
further away.

Though I would definitely be interested in learning how to produce my own
blanks from step one, I do not have the high-fire kiln or other ceramic
equipment necessary. My present kiln is strictly low-fire and limited to
approximately 1700-1800 degrees F. Plus the garage of my potentially
antique house would need to be somehow rewired, which is indeed a costly
venture. However, I do already know the basics of mould making for ceramics
and an introductory "smidgen" about throwing on a potter's wheel.

Further, if anyone needs a decorator to work in your studio/factory I would
be interested in discussing the position and your needs. I am seeking
additional employment beyond desiring to expand my painting endeavors into a
new venue which is especially historically based.

Finally, does anyone know if there is such a thing as a portable, preferably
high fire, kiln powered by propane or other non-electric fuel? If so, who
manufactures it and how may I obtain the details? I would like to be able
to precisely control the temperature, if possible for proper maturation. If
I go on a longer camping trip I like to take my porcelain paints and kiln
with me. I find there can be hardly anything more relaxing and muse
inducing than painting amidst nature's calm serenity.

Thank you for your time and attention to my inquiry. Feel free to respond
privately.

Artistic regards,

Darcy Giesseman