Inspired by oriental glazes
I started working in clay in 2003, after a career in the electronics industry, research, development and consultancy. A bit of a change. But not so much. The idea of working something through from a basic understanding of the materials and processes to a final product that works is very similar!
I started with a two year Art Foundation course, followed by the three year BA (Hons) Ceramics degree course at the University of Westminster - otherwise known as the Harrow Ceramics degree. I graduated in 2008, and have been making and selling my work ever since.
One of the most inspirational visits I made when at Harrow was to the Sir Percival David Collection of Chinese Ceramics, then part of SOAS in Gordon Square. It subsequently moved to a shiny new gallery space in the British Museum, where it is seen by many more visitors. There’s something about these pots, some made over 1000 years ago, that intrigued me. It was the start of my journey into oriental inspired glazes, especially Copper Reds.
Copper red over Celadon
Chun over Copper Red
Copper red cut bowl
Chun glaze over Tenmoku
Most of my work is made with Porcelain, and thrown on the wheel. I do also handbuild and use moulds for large pieces. I use a range of glazes, mostly based on traditional Chinese recipes, remade using modern ingredients. My ‘signature’ is Copper Red, a tricky glaze that requires careful firing in a flame kiln to achieve the finish. I often combine the Copper Red with other glazes - Celadon, Tenmoku and Chun, as the mixtures add another level of unpredictability to the final result, melting and flowing.