Bleaching Coral Vase
Bleaching Coral Vase is a piece that looks at the effects that global warming has on ocean life, specifically coral reefs. Coral bleaching happens when light, temperature, or nutrient conditions change in a coral reef environment. This vase is about showing the inbetween state before coral turns completely white. The coral can look beautiful and delicate yet it’s sending warning signals that the end is near.
Creating the Shape
Johnson starts the project off by combining two wheel thrown bowls and a coil built vessel together. This allows Johnson to display how well hand building and wheel made components work together. The shapes are intentionally made thick so that the artist has more freedom to carve out of the vase.
Adding Details & Character
Now that the base of the vase is created, Earline begins to carve out a cohesive design on the vase. Johnson was influenced by the textures, shapes, and positive/negative space coral found within coral reefs. The process takes about five days to complete. Johnson uses a variety of tools to create a finished product that begs to be touched.
Applying Color
Finally, Earline finishes off the project with a muted color palette to show the process of bleaching coral. Johnson used underglaze to create an splatter/impressionist like design on the vase. She then put a clear coat on top to give the piece a glossy look.
