Whale Skin

The Story & Design

"Whale Skin" is an ironic title for this original miniature painting. While it doesn't actually look like real whale skin, that was the very first thought that flashed through my mind when I pulled it out of the kiln.

The surface features a fascinating, dual texture that feels simultaneously smooth and rough to the touch, covered in a unique pattern of organic glass bubbles. This striking finish was created by a perfect storm of happy studio accidents: firing wet enamel with adhesive before it had fully dried, using high-temperature transparent enamel that refused to stay transparent, and pushing the kiln to extreme temperatures. The result is a technique with no official name - just a process the kiln decided on. Fully embracing the wabi-sabi philosophy, this experimental artwork celebrates the magic of unexpected mistakes and the raw, unrepeatable reactions of fused glass on copper.

(Note: The custom handmade display stand for this piece is currently in development — stay tuned for the final reveal!)

Specifications

• The Art: Original miniature enamel artwork (ironically titled "Whale Skin").

• The Medium: Wet-packed enamel with adhesive, fired before fully drying to create an organic bubble texture. High-temperature transparent enamel on front; white contra enamel on reverse. Copper base.

• Dimensions: 50 × 51 mm.

• Edition: One of a kind. When it's gone, it's gone.

• Texture: Unique bubble finish - simultaneously glossy and highly tactile. No two firings could produce this again.

• Display Stand: Custom handmade stand currently in progress.

• Origin: Handcrafted by the artist.