Bob’s decision to work with traditional forms may limit his vocabulary of shapes, but he finds the history of traditional forms to be inspiring. The teapot form encourages the opportunity to alter proportions and manipulate the profile. Bob strives to retain the tactile qualities of the clay by emphasizing the details, such as the pressed seams and folded edges. Bob makes his pots intimate, sensitive and gentle objects, while still maintaining a functional form. Most of his work is slab constructed, where the clay is rolled out into sheets about one-quarter inch thick with a slab roller. The final piece is then cut away and formed from the slab to create the finished shape. Functional items include cups, pitchers, teapots, tea bowls, vases, plates and bowls.
yost pottery 