Ceramics will be displayed in the workshop. There are 3 kilns of varying sizes and 2 wheels. I am happy to discuss working methods with any visitors that are interested. I use a sgraffito technique in my decoration. Leather hard clay is covered in wax. A needle tool is used to draw the design through the wax. The lines are emphasised by applying black copper oxide. After bisque firing when the wax is burnt away, the pot is white with a black outline drawing. I then add oxides and underglazes and finally a clear glaze, although some exteriors are left matt.
I have recently been making and using coloured slips and also introducing more texture. Work is constantly evolving.
Jugs are a speciality from 10 cms. up to 40 cms. in height. A wide range of vessels are made both by hand building and thrown on the wheel. Dishes, vases and mugs of all sizes decorated with exotic birds are very popular. All pieces are functional and can go in the dish washer but I would advise matt finishes are hand washed.
The workshop overlooks our cottage garden with wide borders, fruit trees and a vegetable plot. You are welcome to explore and to have a cup of tea whilst relaxing on the patio.
I have a degree in Ceramics from Bristol and further post graduate study at Saratoga University, New York State. For most of my career I have combined teaching with producing work in my own workshop. For the past 13 years I have not taught but been a full time maker. I am a long standing member of The Oxfordshire Craft Guild and West Ox Arts with whom I exhibit regularly. Locally my ceramics can be found at 2 Galleries; Sota in Witney and Obsidian in Stoke Mandeville.
My first workshop was in Space Studios, Wapping, London but since leaving London I have had a studio at home. My present studio was purpose built about 12 years ago.
Initially working with stoneware clays and porcelain, I presently use high fired earthenware. This change of clay evolved as my interest in decoration developed. My work is influenced by travels in Africa and Central America, using sketchbook images and photographs.