Daniel Oliver has been working with clay for many years and continues to be drawn to the medium for its calming and transformative nature. Working with clay brings him to a magical place where imagination is the only requirement.
He creates his pieces using hand-building techniques, which allow the freedom and fluidity he seeks in his creative process. Beginning with a slab or extruded form of clay, he adds surface textures and shapes each piece until the form feels complete.
His finished works are either Raku fired or mid-range fired. He applies glazes by brushing, stamping, or trailing designs onto each surface, allowing spontaneity and intuition to guide his hand. From there, he entrusts the final stage to what he affectionately calls “the Goddesses,” hoping they will be kind during the firing process.
Ultimately, Daniel’s practice is rooted in joy and play. The whimsical spirit of his work reflects that sense of delight—each piece a unique, one-of-a-kind creation.
