Clay Plaster Works — Mason Owens

This work evolved from a desire to create large-scale artworks that use local, natural materials. I wanted to scale up themes within my small drawings and collages without abandoning the environmental stewardship that I feel is a central tenant of my work and life. The process begins by mixing clay, sand, cattail fluff, and water to form a “mud”. After building a unique wooden frame the mud is poured within and then sections are carved away to create a three dimensional surface. The process, although time consuming, requires no special tools or skills, uses an abundant local material, and creates no waste. The finished surface can be painted or used for relief printmaking.

Wooden frame made with found materials.

Wooden frame made with found materials.

Mixing “mud”. The mixture is roughly 70% sand and 30% clay.

Mixing “mud”. The mixture is roughly 70% sand and 30% clay.

Filling frame with mud.

Filling frame with mud.

Screeding the mud to create a level surface.

Screeding the mud to create a level surface.

After screeding I let the mixture dry overnight so it will hold an edge when carved.

After screeding I let the mixture dry overnight so it will hold an edge when carved.

Measuring and making initial cuts.

Measuring and making initial cuts.

Once the design is finished the mud has to finish drying for several days.

Once the design is finished the mud has to finish drying for several days.

Oiling the surface with linseed oil and wax to create a more waterproof surface that ink can be applied too.

Oiling the surface with linseed oil and wax to create a more waterproof surface that ink can be applied too.

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Wooden frame made with found materials.

Mixing “mud”. The mixture is roughly 70% sand and 30% clay.

Filling frame with mud.

Screeding the mud to create a level surface.

After screeding I let the mixture dry overnight so it will hold an edge when carved.

Measuring and making initial cuts.

Once the design is finished the mud has to finish drying for several days.

Oiling the surface with linseed oil and wax to create a more waterproof surface that ink can be applied too.