Sea creatures and woodland life are my starting point. I make burnished ceramic sculptures enhanced with smoke firing to give each one unique characteristics. Smooth to touch and beautiful to see.
I am returning to Arran Open Studios after a ten year break and it is so good to be back again. Arran is the place where my ideas start.
I trained at Grays School of Art and have been working for many years as an arts administrator and teacher. However in the last decade I have been working solely on my ceramics. I show my work in many galleries, mainly coastal and also at artist events. My home is in the Peak District and I am a member of Peak District Artisans.
Burishing the clay as it hardens is what makes the clay shine, this is repeated over many days. It is then smoke fired in wood shavings as well as other natural ingredients such as seaweed and heather. The markings on the clay are all dependant on the position in the kiln and how hot the temperature goes. It is entirely serendipidous. It has a totally natural look and is often mistaken for polished stone. I hope to be demonstrating smoke firing during the Open Studios event and you are welcome to come and see the process.
Looking forward to welcoming you all to The Old Schoolhouse.
Location
What3words:
Directions:
3 The Old Schoolhouse, Shore Road, Kildonan, KA27 8SE
Driving to the south end of Arran, turn off the main A841, at the Kildonan sign. Continue down to the shore road. Look for a blue 'P' parking sign on your right (The sea on your left). Once parked follow the track away from the shore and turn immediate right. 3 The Old Schoolhouse is the last house on your left.
Parking in car park off the road, two minutes walk from the house.
Facilities:
Parking available
Toilet facilities