Sectional and Sentimental | 2025

What makes a vessel functional?

This is the question Meriel explored during her 1-month residency at Medalta (Medicine Hat, AB.) in 2023. This period involved research into historic, innovative techniques in the ceramic industry, specifically in the Canadian prairies, and how one could apply them to current practices. 

These vases were not only a new physical challenge but also a challenge to the idea of functional form. They were an intentional experimentation in sculptural vessels and once the objective of making something practical was removed from the equation, her instincts and sentiment took over. Being a prairie girl herself at heart, she wanted to pay homage to her roots.

Growing in her craftsmanship, these vases were made using sectional wheel throwing techniques. In keeping with her nostalgic tendencies, the cord, wheat and clay are symbolic. The Danish paper cord, a gift from her father, is a symbol of commitment to the quality of her craft. The black bearded wheat, a gift from her mother, is a sentimental symbol of her prairie roots. Both clay bodies are locally produced by Plainsman Clays and the clay used for "Sectional and Sentimental Vase 1" contains clay sourced from her home province of Manitoba.

Along with other work created during the residency, these two vases were a part of the September Artist Showcase in the beehive kiln at Medalta in 2023 (See last photos).           They were not fully completed at the time. 

Both these vases were officially finished in 2025. 

They're currently on display and for sale at Atelier Cone10 in Montreal, QC.    Please contact for details. 

Artwork Details:

1. 'Sectional and Sentimental Vase 1', 2025, Cone 10 red clay, reduction gas fired vessel, unglazed, woven with Danish paper cord, holds black bearded wheat, approx. 23cm x 52cm.
2. 'Sectional and Sentimental Vase 2', 2025, Cone 10 beige clay, reduction gas fired vessel, unglazed, woven with Danish paper cord, holds black bearded wheat, approx. 23cm x 45cm.

 

 

(September Artist Showcase photo credit: Mika Haykowsky)