Info
What craft do you work with?
I make functional and decorative ceramics from my studio in Co. Meath, Ireland,
What inspires you to work with this craft?
My designs are inspired by the Irish coastline and often incorporate the use of locally sourced materials. I get a huge amount of joy from working with clay. The versatility of working with clay means that there is a huge amount of scope for play and experimentation
How do you start your creative process?
I use colours inspired by nature and often include local materials collected along the shoreline near my home in the surface decoration. Aside from providing textural and tonal qualities, the local materials give my work a sense of place, a connection to their environment. I strive for simplicity and balance in my work.
How would you best describe your workspace and what tools could you not do without?
Working mainly with porcelain clay, my pieces are gentle and quiet – thrown on a potters’ wheel and then finely turned until a sense of balance is achieved. I make in a calm and considered way. The forms are kept purposefully simple in order to capture a sense of lightness and ease. I approach the decoration of my pieces thoughtfully.
Are there new techniques you would like to try?
Trying a new technique and getting a better-than-expected result is probably what I love the most about working with clay. It drives me forward and compels me to keep making.