Rift Valley is oval in every direction. It’s oval vertically, from the side, and in cross section, as well as the throat. A fun challenge to build! As is all my work, it is hand-built using the native clay I dig from the Laramie formation. So, is the Rift Valley the deep scoop in the throat of the piece? Or is it the dramatic diagonal slash that goes across the front – or the back? Or all the above? Every angle of the serene shape bespeaks violence and drama. Who knows what came before the peaceful form was fired? People are like that, too. Some who now are the most calm and reassuring were chastened in the fires of personal trials years before.