Sounds of clay: Onofrio Chieco's whistles
Melanie Zefferino · Ceramics technical · 2010
The aim of this paper is to introduce the Italian clay whistle traditions to a wider audience and to present Onofrio Chieco's sound-producing ceramics as an offspring of artistry and cultural heritage. After outlining a short history of clay whistles and explaining the working principle of this kind of musical instrument, the technical issues related to their construction will be illustrated. The materials and technique used by Onofrio Chieco will be examined in detail showing pictures of his clay whistles, ocarinas and sculptures with incorporated handmade sound-producing devices. And lastly, after shedding light on Chieco's secrets for mastering the craft, the role of both form and sound in the artist's work will be discussed.