Path and Inspiration
I can still remember touching clay for the 1st time at school.
Much later joined an adult education class, studying the City & Guilds diploma & found my 'thing'. Always been interested in the Space Race & the Moon so when I learnt the large white pot Lucie Rie was sitting next to in the photo by Armstrong was called a moon jar -I was hooked. Am inspired by both the Korean Moon Jar and Japanese ceramics- I fascinated by the both the discipline and their freedom of expressionProcess and Practice
I work in my studio shed at home, handbuilding (pinching & coiling), using moulds as support for larger pieces.
I love the whole process of coiling, joining & smoothing clay- totally absorbing. I apply glazes using sponges, leaving naked areas & then after glaze firing, I smoke fire. I find the raku & smoke firing processes mesmerising-the coloured glazes contrasting with the black.
I bisque to 1000oC, earthenware to 1040oC. I use studio white earthenware & Ashraf Hanna for larger pieces.
