Well aware that ceramics can be a polluting activity, Aline has made decisions to remedy this. Indeed, the choice of raw materials and work gestures are always more responsible and ecological:

• All clay residues and glaze waste are recycled, nothing is thrown away. Nothing goes into the pipes.

• The workshop has equipped itself with photovoltaic panels for a greener activity.

• Certain elements are banned from the creation of glazes. Awareness of the importance of glaze safety was transmitted to Aline from the beginning by Sonia Pignolet (Atelier 170) and reinforced following a long training on glazes with Joëlle Swanet.

Aline Michel set up her ceramic studio in Namur, next to the family home. It is her den, where she gives free rein to her passion but also a meeting place around the clay during the courses that take place there and a place of life, where the voices of children and friends passing by resonate.

THE STEPS IN CREATING A PIECE

Draw the piece

Choose a clay

Calculate the raw dimensions according to the shrinkage of the clay

Weigh the clay

Prepare the clay

Turn the piece or shape it

Leave to dry (time varies depending on the seasons)

Turn the piece and assemble it (adding a handle for example)

Sign

Leave to dry (sometimes for a long time, it all depends on the ambient humidity level and in Belgium... you know what!)

Cook the biscuit at 940°C

Remove from the oven almost 48 hours later

Choose a glaze

Prepare the glaze bath

Glazing

Leave to dry

Clean the glaze drips

Cook at 1240°C/1250°C

Remove from the oven at least 48 hours later