2510 Deepwood Drive
Wilmington, DE 19810

302-475-8796
i.reinhold@verizon.net

Artist Statement

My paintings are on porcelain. I have studied watercolor and oils, but porcelain is the art form that continually challenges and fascinates me. While I work with materials and techniques that vary little from those developed by the ancient Chinese, my paintings are reflections of today and express my true spirit. Each painting requires numerous firings in a kiln reaching a temperature of 1500 degrees Fahrenheit. A thorough understanding of the characteristics of the pigments are required because different colors require different temperatures, and some colors change after firing. It is my love of animals and all things natural that dictate my subject matter. 

Some years ago I was challanged to turn Christmas ornaments into orginal works of art and today I regard them as seriously as any of my other paintingss. The basic piece is poured from fine porcelain slip, hand finished and kiln fired. Using special mineral paints the design is applied to the bisque surface and is returned to the kiln and fired. Three or more paintings are required to develop the color qualities and distinctive embellishments of each original design. Meant to be enjoyed throughout the year, each is made entirely by hand and is truly one of a kind.

Irma Reinhold is founder and Executive Director of the Delaware Foundation for the Visual Arts.