Yolandi Van Heerden – portfolio

Contact the artist

07501 340939
Yolandi_vanheerden@yahoo.com

 

Exhibition information

My art focuses on creating textured, wheel-thrown pottery that combines form, surface, and glaze to create visually and physically engaging pieces. I love working on the wheel. There is something meditative about centering the clay and feeling it rise beneath my fingers as it spins. Shaping it into pots and vases is both calming and rewarding, and I’m inspired by how a simple lump of clay can transform into a purposeful, meaningful piece.

I often use textured ribs while throwing to create patterns and movement on the surface. These textures add depth and individuality to my work, making each piece unique.

I also like experimenting with different glaze combinations. Layering glazes over textured surfaces creates interesting effects, as the glaze pools and breaks over the ridges. The interaction between texture and glaze enhances the overall design.

Through this process, I aim to create pottery that is both functional and visually engaging. The textures I create are not only meant to be seen but also felt. The ridges and patterns add a sensory element to each piece, encouraging people to interact with the surface through touch as well as sight. This tactile quality makes the work more personal and immersive, allowing the viewer to experience the pottery in a deeper and more meaningful way.

Artist information

I started pottery four years ago after being inspired by watching The Great Pottery Throw Down. Seeing the creativity and skill on the show made me want to try it for myself. My husband bought me a taster session at Fired Up Studios, and from that first experience, I was hooked.

What I love most about pottery is the balance between technical skill and creative freedom. There is a strong foundation of technique to learn, but within that structure there is endless opportunity to experiment and develop my own style. Each piece challenges me to refine my skills while also allowing me to express new ideas.

Pottery has also introduced me to a wonderful community. The studio is a fantastic place to meet people from different backgrounds who are all brought together by a shared love of clay. It has become not just a hobby, but an important and inspiring part of my life.