Merryll Saylan (USA) caarved and coloured ash platter 4x35cm. SignedIn Honour of Ray KeyI had me Tay Key at conferences, the first way back in the late 70’s. I moved to the UK on a residency program at Grizedal Sculpture Park in 1990 and Ray had been advising them on machinery that I might be needing. That’s when I became closer friends with Ray and his family.Ray helped me find a lathe to work on which I still use – my well loved Graduate. I joined the AWGB and with Ray’s help and the organisation’s as well, I felt part of my new community. Ray always included my husband, Ed Saylan and in particular helped him understand cricket – not an easy thing to do.I was thrilled to receive a platter started by Ray. His mounting recess fitted my Axminster chuck perfectly. I was introduced to that chuck whilst living in the UK and still use that as well.For several of the exhibitions that I participated in living over there, I frequently used black or charred finishes. This plate and the type of wood was a perfect vehicle for that treatment. I kept the size of the rim Ray started, turned enough of it to make it round and balanced, carved the edges and part of the base, burnt it and finished with both oil and a dark wax.I send my respects to AWGB and to Liz Key and Darren. Thank you for including me in this event, it is an honour.With warm regardsMerryll SaylanThe Ray Key Collaboration Auction