John Jordan (USA) coloured rippled ash hollow form 12x9cm. SignedMy piece for the exhibition is a little ash hollow vessel. When I chose it, I had thought to use a fluted shape that is typical for me, and have the flutes go down into the opening that Ray had shaped. The piece was too thin in spots, however, to accommodate the carving, so I smoothed it up inside and out, sanded it and brushed out the grain then dyed it black. I’m quite pleased with it, I think Ray would have been as well.I’ve known Ray for over thirty years, and we spent a lot of time together in many places over the years. I was a guest in his home several times, just as he stayed with Vicki and me. There’s not much I can say that others haven’t already said. When I think of Ray, I think of how much he liked to talk, and man could he talk. It was never quiet when Ray was around. One of the most memorable times was when he and his dear friend Bert Marsh took the train to London to visit with me. I was in town for the “Collect” show. There may have been some complimentary cocktails involved at a restaurant, and since I don’t drink, every time the waiter came around, I would decline the drink, to which Bert would reply, “I’ll have his!” Quite a night. I miss them both.The Ray Key Collaboration Auction