about
Coralie Triance has been working with clay since the early 1970’s. After a year in Europe in 1969, where she was exposed to many different forms of art, she was drawn to the arts and craft movement that was exploding on the West Coast. She joined a class at the Vancouver School of Art. Her first instructor was Hiro Urakaimi, who was a major influence for young potters in Vancouver.
In the mid 1980’s, the Potter’s Guild of BC opened the Gallery of BC Ceramics on Granville Island. It is here where she began to promote the work of BC ceramic artists. She has worked with of many leadings ceramic artists, gaining knowledge of the seemingly unending techniques used by very talented people.
After several years of managing the gallery, it was time to move on and explore her creative talents. She attended Capilano College, where she studied with another BC great, Sam Kwan. Her love of clay endures. She continues to explore the endless possibilities clay offers.
artist statement
My work is simple in form, clean lines enhanced by surface treatment. My work comprises of thrown, mould, and hand-built pieces. Surface treatments are minimal as I prefer my work have an ancient appearance. Slips (liquid clay) are applied overall or stamps are pressed into the clay, covered with slip, and then scraped away, leaving the slip in the recessed designs.
The pieces being submitted for consideration are labour intensive. They are raku fired in the technique called “naked raku.” Several steps are involved before completion.
Pieces are created by using press moulds. Two identical pieces are made, joined together, then burnished. The back of with a spoon is used to compress and smooth the surface. This procedure forces silica to the surface and forms a glaze-like surface. Then it is polished with a soft cloth. Several coats of terra sigillata are applied and polished after each application. They are then bisque fired and ready for glazing. A slip is applied and then the glaze. Now it is ready for firing.
My sources of inspiration are quite diverse. From ancient Greek and Roman, Mayan, and Latin American to the resurgence of ceramics of the Handcraft movement to contemporary works of today. Many of our ceramic artists of British Columbia have influenced my work over the years.
I am now focusing on low-fired work. After decades of working with clay, I am finally focusing on work that resonates for me. It has been a very long path to the work I am creating today.
