Pots are like people.  Their form is described by some of the same defintions--lips, feet, and shoulders, and their character and personality can be expressed by being open, warm, generous, rotund, sensuous, loose or jolly.  My use of the vessel/female metaphor lies in the subtle suggestion of figure in form.  Vases have soft female curves and decorations that imply clothing.  Many of my forms are raised on a pedestal like foot that serves as a "skirt".  My method of stacking various volumes allows me to play with human proportions and relationships.  Altering a pot out of the round creates contrasting angles  that suggest hips and waists.  The use of line and pattern accentuates the mood or nature of the pot, and can prompt it's use for specific occassions. The techniques I use when making my pots allows me to create each one with a personality of its own.