Lantern love

Yesterday at the Guild show I got to have some fun (read that as not working and totally slacking off) and play around with some carving. No, those gorgeous lanterns above are not what I carved - they were made by the fabulous Lauren Ritchie. She was kind enough to demo her technique both days of the show. She even threw a bunch of small bowls in advance so that others could give the carving a try.

This is Lauren working on a large piece. In front are three examples of her work. The piece on the right was just carved with a gorgeous Mackintosh Rose motif inspired by her recent trip to Scotland.

And here is one of her intricate circle designs in progress.

And this funny little pot is my attempt. OK, so I have a long way to go before I reach Lauren's level of mastery but it's not too bad (stop laughing!). I brought it home with me so that I can finish it up myself. Hmm, how should I glaze this masterpiece? :)

Lauren's work can be found at Gallery fifty-four in Skaneateles, NY.