Statement

In my work I attempt to reflect the complexity of natural rhythms, taking inspiration particularly from plant and rock forms, and from flowing water.  Keeping preliminary sketching to a minimum, I like to develop work in contact with the clay. This method of working helps each piece to speak of the clay through which it is expressed, not just the motivating concept.  I find that this duality enriches the finished work, as well as enhancing my enjoyment of the process of making. 

I work mainly with stoneware clay mixed with paper or flax fibres which give the clay special properties useful to my hand-building process.  During firing the fibres are burnt away completely leaving behind a lighter, but still strong, purely ceramic object.  I use a variety of glazes, burnishing and smoke-firing to achieve appropriate finished surfaces for each piece.