Artist Q&A

What are your main themes you’re interested in?

 My current work revolves around exploring ways to create new textures in my pieces. I use ‘found’ surfaces or experiment with ways to create my own. This might be by using wood or paper or by chiselling plaster for example. I am currently obsessed with patterned concrete underpasses and I’m returning to the wooden modular moulds I made during my MA bringing me back to the original formwork inspiration. I find I create most successfully through experimentation and respond to materials as I work and the outcome isn’t necessarily planned at the beginning.

 Why do you use the processes and materials you use?

  I am a slip caster, which means I create work by pouring liquid clay into plaster moulds. The liquid clay (or slip) forms a skin where it touches the dry plaster and this is what forms the piece. I developed a casting method during my MA that allows me to stack up mould sections and create unique pieces by re-configuring the moulds. I absolutely love the slip-casting process. It is a rhythmic, peaceful process that I am easily lost in. The pleasure of forming a solid object from the liquid slip is magical. I mainly use terracotta and porcelain in my work. Terracotta is basically an industrial clay and I love the honest, forgiving warmth it has. Porcelain has a silky, smooth feel to it and I like to leave the finished pieces unglazed to allow the ghostly purity to shine through. I also use CAD and 3D printing as tools to problem solve and develop ideas where I can. This has opened all kinds of possibilities for me. I used it to develop my back stamp in my work and I have streamlined various making processes by 3D printing tools I have designed. 

 What philosophies do you live by?

 I try to make the most of every day and count my blessings. The last twelve months have made clear to me how important that is. I try very hard not to be afraid of failing. To give things a go and not worry too much about what the outcome may or may not be. It’s sometimes hard, but I’m getting better at it. I am a creative person and seem to have an innate need to create. I try to make sure I do something creative every day. It also makes me determined to make my business succeed.