I hand sculpt each original piece from a 25 lb block of moist porcelain clay using a few simple tools and my hands. Initially I push the clay into a rough shape, and as soon as it sets up enough to hold its shape (a day or 2), I hollow it out with a loop tool, further defining the outer shape as I go. Sometimes I can hollow from the bottom of the piece; others I have to cut it open, then replace and close the opening.

The physics of firing require that it be hollowed out, but for purposes of creating an urn chamber, if one is requested, this becomes more labor intensive, smoothing the inside enough so I can line it.

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The piece is then kept covered with plastic, typically for weeks, in order to force the drying to be even from the inside out. (If it dries too quickly it can create cracking when firing in the kiln.)  During the drying process I add form and detail each day. Weather and humidity can greatly affect the length of this process. During this part of the process I tend not to be in communication unless a question comes up. Its a hurry up and wait time, and although I add a bit more detail most days, theres not a lot of visible change.

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When I am satisfied with the sculpture and it has dried most of the way through, I allow it to dry very thoroughly (to prevent explosion during firing). I sometimes use mason stains for some colors and then It is then placed in my electric kiln and slowly fired to 2250 degree F.  (This is a temperature capable of melting many metals.)

It is kept from cooling too fast by actually turning the kiln on low as it comes back down, taking 24 hours or more.

​I then hand paint, applying detailed color in a final step to capture the personality of each subject. This can take hours, or easily stretch into days.  It is frequently a process of two steps forward, one back, to arrive at a finished sculpture. 

Custom Pet Sculpture, Urns & Memorials

YOUR Pet Sculpted From YOUR Photos    

The process and materials

Minette Sculpture ~ 40 YEARS of Animal Sculpture