Ginny Coone created this Native American warrior pottery piece using metallic paint further enhanced through an antiquing technique.
Susan Eastman
Like many others, Ginny and her husband were snowbirds—coming from Denver, Colo., and wintering in PebbleCreek for 17 years. When retirement finally arrived they made the move to become full-time residents in 2016. Settling in a new cul-de-sac, they were joined by others at the same time and all became fast friends. Tragically, Ginny’s husband died later that year. Ginny later found ceramics and many new friends who were able to offer friendship and solace. This new art form was at once therapy and an outlet for artistry she didn’t know she had!
Now a regular in the ceramics studio, Ginny has created numerous pieces that involve many different techniques. She painted a decorative lizard with a green glaze, accenting its nails and back with gold paint that she “pounced” on, a technique that lends a variegated appearance. Using airbrushing, Ginny created a stunning upside down heart entitled “Lost Love” in muted colors. On a large vase, crystals that are actually in the paint were used to create a flowing quality of blues and greens from top to bottom.
Drawn to the spiritual quality of Native American warriors in pottery, she captured their identity using metallic paint that she further enhanced through antiquing with a translucent black stain she gently wiped off while still wet to reveal the dimensions of the pieces. For a Native American couple, metallic paint was used for luster with jewelry decorated with silver paint for enhancement.
Although Ginny says she procrastinates when it comes to color selection, she does love metallics for their luster. She is also drawn to larger pieces for ease of brush manipulation.
Her work reflects the stage of life she celebrates, influencing piece selection. With the help of the instructors who challenge and inspire, and the friends she’s made over the years, ceramics are a meaningful part of her life.