I have enjoyed working with clay since I was at school but after a few
career changes I finally decided to give up work and become a full time
potter.
I am self-taught which is a continuous process for me as I am constantly
learning especially from fellow potters who are always happy to share tips and
advice.
I enjoy making large hand-built vessels and dishes using white stoneware
clay, by coiling, moulding or a combination. I sometimes use paper clay, which
is a combination of paper pulp and clay, for some of the larger pieces so they
are less likely to crack and are more lightweight.
The pots are firstly bisque fired in an electric kiln, and then
smoke-fired with sawdust, wood shavings or newspaper. I use various materials
to resist the smoke, such as string, masking tape and wax, which burn away in
the firing to make patterns on the pots.
I have recently attended a smoke fired pottery course with Jane Perryman,
which inspired me to use colour, by applying coloured slips before the firing,
and also to burnish the surface before firing to give a smoother finish.
I am a member of the Southern Ceramic Group and have exhibited at the
Guildhall Gallery in Winchester.
