‘Whisper’

Material: Earthstone clay

Dimensions: 18x18x10cm, 12x8x17cm, 14x10x26cm

I work in clay to still my mind. As a reaction to a period of intense grief following the loss of my son, my want to create turned into a need and everything changed for me. The only space I could face my new reality was through working in clay. Being able to stop, make and understand the power of being still with me, was the beginning of a new journey of self-discovery and development of my current collection. This innate desire brought about a different level of creativity. Once I quietened my mind and gave over control to my hands, my deepest thoughts took the form of marks and colours as if a greater force at play.

Formed using the slow and repetitive process of slip casting, slab and coil building, using only my hands and very limited tools, I have full connection with the clay at all stages of production. I view my method of working as an active form of meditation allowing the process and the materials to guide me, handing over control to the unpredictable outcomes of what evolves.

Using a smooth white Earthstone clay, fired to 1180, I use my forms as a canvas to create 3d abstract paintings, each one an original piece of functional art. Working in groups, each piece is unique, yet complement each other as a series of works.

Finding my way back to clay and honouring my innate need to make, has been a gift of stillness to me that I want to share with others who connect with my work.