Info
What craft do you work with?
I am an artist maker with over 20 years’ experience making and teaching ceramics.
How would you best describe your workspace?
I have a cosy workshop, where I produce my own work and offer 1:1 classes for beginners or those who want to complete a specific project. I have everything needed – tools, equipment, clays, and glazes. I also have 2 raku kilns and can offer workshops using this exciting technique.
What are the main inspirations for your work?
my practice is very firmly grounded in participation, community, and collaboration. My own work is eclectic and generally has a social commentary element. I explore themes using moulds, hand building methods, decals, and lustres. I currently work for the charity Crisis UK as Arts Coordinator.
Can you give some examples of the sort of work you produce?
Recent projects include: ‘Flotilla’ commissioned to mark WW1. A flotilla of boats made by schoolchildren and community in Llanelli to recognise the sacrifices made by local men in the Merchant Navy, exhibited at Park Howard Museum. ‘Copper Crucibles’ A partnership project with National Waterfront Museum, Swansea University and GS Artists. Community members came together to make hundreds of replica ceramic crucibles, exploring the history of the Hafod-Morfa Copperworks. The pieces were Raku fired at venues across Swansea and displayed in NWM’s White Walls Gallery and Oriel Science.
You can seem my work on Instagram at esther_ley_ceramic_art