In dedication for my little sister Rani Asava a survivor of gun violence

Unpredictability of a Gun is a series of handmade ceramic guns that explores the issue of gun violence in America. The guns are soda-fired, a technique that introduces an element of unpredictability into the final outcome. This firing process—where a soda solution is introduced into the kiln—creates unique variations in color, texture, and form on each piece. These unpredictable results are a reflection of the chaotic and random nature of gun violence, which, despite the human desire for control, often leads to devastating and unforeseen consequences.The gun, as an object, is both a symbol of power and a tool for destruction. My use of the ceramic medium—fragile, malleable, and often associated with art—creates a stark contrast to the lethal potential of a firearm. This juxtaposition is meant to provoke reflection on the normalization of guns in American society and the way violence, often sudden and irreversible, is embedded in our culture. Ceramics, unlike metal or plastic, are delicate materials, which invites the viewer to reconsider the impact of violence when applied to something that, in its original form, is vulnerable.The soda firing process amplifies this theme of unpredictability. In this technique, soda vapor interacts with the clay body at high temperatures, causing each piece to respond differently. The result is a surface with random variations, from subtle color shifts to dramatic texture changes. This random quality mirrors the unpredictable consequences of gun violence—whether in the form of mass shootings, suicide, domestic violence, or accidents. Each act of violence, like each fired piece, is unique, but the aftermath is often equally destructive and irreversible. The randomness of the firing process becomes a metaphor for the violence that guns have had and will continue having. By creating these ceramic guns, I aim to address the tension between control and chaos. Guns are tools of power, often wielded with the intent to control or protect. However, once a gun is fired, its impact is beyond full control. This unpredictability—mirrored in the firing process—highlights the dangerous unpredictability of firearms in society. Even when guns are handled with care, their potential for destruction cannot be entirely contained nor reversed. This series aims to create a dialogue about the relationship between guns and society, focusing on the need for reflection, responsibility, and reform. The unpredictability inherent in both the medium and the subject matter serves as a powerful reminder that gun violence cannot be neatly predicted. By creating art that embodies this chaos, I hope to provoke thought and encourage action toward meaningful change.