CERAMICS AND PRINTMAKING

Multi-layered lithographs with hand painted highlights and glazed ceramic dishes explore the process of creating itself, rather than creating to realize an idea. My practice stems from the research practices used by scientists - each new material is treated as an experiment and is explored until it is fully understood. I use these scientific methods as a process of working, continuously researching until I know the work has reached its final state.
The experimental processes in the work are chosen as they are ones which allow the materials to become a part of the process, such as the glazes in a Raku firing. The glazes are presented on simple bowls so that the focus can be entirely on the glaze. I respond to the accidental textures and cracks that develop and enhance their aesthetic effect in further prints. The prints incorporate layers of patterns from the glazes, gestural marks and hand painted details which tie it all together. The printmaking process is methodical and controlled but the results are anything but. Both the prints and bowls take inspiration from Japanese kintsugi which is the practice of highlighting cracks and mistakes and making them beautiful rather than hiding them, this practice embraces my experimental process of working, ensuring that even the most overlooked piece can become a work of art.