MJ Russell

Trying to Fill That Hole in Your Chest is the second piece I created for my ceramic independent study. I utilized multiple processes: hand-building, building solid then hollowing, applying underglaze, and sgraffito (carving into the clay).

This piece, as well as its sister piece Getting Stuck in Your Inner World, discusses aspects of my personal identity. I often find it difficult to put these things into words. By using non-human, fantastical forms, I disconnect myself from the fear of being vulnerable, and I feel more comfortable expressing the complex parts of myself. This one worked on the themes of: my complex relationship with love, how I define love for myself, and how I often feel “incorrect” or “broken” in regards to society’s expectations of love. The physical form of the sculpture is not fully relevant, other than it’s something I find aesthetically pleasing (and fun to create). More importance is placed on its expression, body language, and the focal point of its chest. Despite having a clear vision for my pieces, I also encourage people to find their own meaning.

I started this project with a big lump of clay formed into the basic shape of the body. This big bit is later hollowed out to be kiln-ready
I made all of the limbs separately (which may have been a bad idea, as I had a lot of trouble keeping the limbs wet enough to be pliable)
Both back legs were attached. They have cloven hoof-like feet
One of two front legs were attached, as was the basic shape of the tail. I toned down the musculature in the limbs after the fact
This is the first attempt at the head. Unfortunately, it was too large and not properly proportioned
I attached the new (smaller) head and smoothed out the body. I like creating a “realistic” body even for a fantasy creature
Final details – ears and tail texture – were finally added
Pictured here is the cavity in the chest and the little pedestal inside
The underglazing process resulted in this. Underglaze is often washed out and dusty looking before applying glaze. The interior of the chest cavity will turn a deep red and purple
Here’s another angle. The creature has a “pointed” coloring: a pattern found in cats that cause the limbs, tail, and face to be darker than the body. In this case, the body is white and the limbs fade to black. The horns and hooves will be a pink-purple
After bisque-firing, the colors darken but still retain their dusty appearance
The pink glaze will turn clear after firing
I carefully made all 9 miniatures. Each one is roughly 1-2 inches
The minis are underglazed. This is what underglaze is good for: small, specific details
With the clear glaze added, the colors really pop. I love how these guys turned out

The miniatures all have specific meaning behind them. I want to include explanations since it can be a little hard to parse. Each mini represents a thing that I enjoy, respect, and love.
Picture frame: This represents my family and my love for them. I’m fortunate enough to have people who love me back!
Friendship bracelets: Friends are extremely important to me. I love my friends very much and our relationships mean the world to me
Ceramic vase and sketchbook: I love art in many of its forms, and I hope to do it for the rest of my life
Rhino beetle, bird, and snake: Nature, particularly these types of animals, are very near and dear to me. Much of what I create is inspired by nature
Gold infinity symbol: This symbol has been chosen by the autistic community, which I am a part of. I find joy in participating and representing the neurodivergent community
“Real” heart: What is really in our chests – an organ. We all have one. Hearts are the thing that keeps us alive
“Fake” heart: This symbol is often used by society to represent “love” in its many forms. It’s easily recognizable, but not what is really in our chests

Here are some more beautifully staged images of the final project. The underglaze became more streaky than I wanted, but otherwise, I’m very pleased
The minis can sit on the pedestal, or fit into the hand
From this angle, you can really see the deep red interior