Talking about what goes on behind the scenes means revealing a few secrets.

I'll start by reminding you that clay (stoneware, porcelain or earthenware) is a material that remains very, very sensitive to humidity and ambient temperature until it is fired.

Clay should be worked to a smooth consistency (neither too dry and crumbly, nor too wet and soft).

Modelling a sculpture can take up to 10 successive days. It then needs to dry, but not too quickly. A large piece may take 4 weeks to dry.

After that, there may be one or more firings at 970°C and 1250°C. I reserve firing at 1250°C for glazes. If I'm happy with the colours, then I consider the sculpture finished.