My work has been born out of a love of mid 20th century design aesthetics. 

Modernist design surrounded me as I grew up in the 1970s and 80s, from the architecture and interior surfaces of the school I went to, to the cool prints of my grandmother’s clothes and the textured glassware my parents used. At the time, I was completely impervious to it all, but as I have grown older, I have a kind of nostalgic love for it all that rekindles childhood memories. 

I have a passion for the beautiful ‘béton brut’ concrete formwork surfaces seen in Brutalist architecture and this concept, along with the truth to form and materials in the buildings, are what influence my work. I am constantly exploring new ways of creating textural surfaces which, in my most recent work, combines with a simple vase form to emphasise the contrast. 

My current work revolves around a slip-casting method that I developed during my Master’s degree. Moulds are cast in layers which allows me to reconfigure and interchange them to create unique, distinct pieces.  Mould sections are strapped together precariously, and I find myself involved in persuasive conversations to coax the materials to co-operate!

My current collection has been made using terracotta slip. I love the rich colour that deepens the higher it’s fired, and the way the colour and quality of the clay contrast with the glassy glazes. Colour seems to be an important element in my work, although I also love the purity of white porcelain, which can act as an incredible foil for strong textural surfaces. My 100 Vases project has been drawing me back to porcelain, and the glaze-free surfaces encourage me to push the forms and textures further. 

I have been exploring and working with clay since 2011 when I returned to education as my 3 sons grew older.  

I love the warm and unpredictable nature of the material. It is a collaboration; there is always give and take on both sides, and nothing is finally known until the kiln is opened. An idea can materialise but the clay will have the final say on whether it will work. 

Education

2017 - 2020 MA Ceramic Design (Dist.) Staffordshire University

2015 - 2017 BA 3D Design: Ceramics (1st) Staffordshire University

2013 - 2015 HND: Fine Art (Dist.) Mid Cheshire College

2011 - 2013 Level 3 Dip: Art and Design (Dist.) Mid Cheshire College