Heather Croft – Enamel on the Yarrow
Handmade in my workshop in Thirsk on the edge of the Hambleton Hills in North Yorkshire. I take inspiration from Nature and the people I meet. I love colour - an amazing azure blue or a spring green on a white background can remind you of so many wonderful holidays and experiences.I use recycled materials - some of my glass is over 50 years old and my hallmarking (where required) is through the Edinburgh Assay Office so quality is guaranteed.I am a member of Heritage Craft and the Guild of Enamellers. Giving a gift to yourself or another is individual and by investing in my work you enable a heritage craft to continue.I like to share my knowledge and see people burst with pride when they see what they have created. In the Scottish Borders I taught students and teachers from Selkirk High School and the school now incorporates enamelling in their Art Curriculum portfolio as a permanent addition.
Q&A
Artist Statement
Handmade in my workshop in Thirsk on the edge of the Hambleton Hills in North Yorkshire. I take inspiration from Nature and the people I meet. I love colour – an amazing azure blue or a spring green on a white background can remind you of so many wonderful holidays and experiences.I use recycled materials – some of my glass is over 50 years old and my hallmarking (where required) is through the Edinburgh Assay Office so quality is guaranteed.I am a member of Heritage Craft and the Guild of Enamellers. Giving a gift to yourself or another is individual and by investing in my work you enable a heritage craft to continue.I like to share my knowledge and see people burst with pride when they see what they have created. In the Scottish Borders I taught students and teachers from Selkirk High School and the school now incorporates enamelling in their Art Curriculum portfolio as a permanent addition. |
What craft do you work with?
I started enamelling during Lockdown 2021/22 and taught myself through you-tube and joined the Guild of Enamellers Cumbrian group and had various zoom sessions. i am retired and feel I have just discovered who I am.My favourite technique is free hand painting on bowls that Ive pre enamelled and trying to bring a contemporary element to this ancient craft. |
What inspires you to work with this craft?
I love the colours that you can create by firing in a kiln. You truly do not know what is going to come out. I use recycled copper, silver and some vitreous enamel (glass powder) which is over 50 years old. Enamel is enduring and can be kept outside with no detriment to the piece. Its scientific, magical, creative and inspiring at the same time. |
How do you start your creative process?
I like to see something that inspires me. Mainly nature. It might be a tulip or some African fabric. Can I recreate it? The most difficult part is creating the same item multiple times. Kiln temperature and length of firing all play a part. The best part is when it comes out of the kiln and you’ve created a masterpiece. |
How would you best describe your workspace and what tools could you not do without?
I have a shed that is my soulful place. I have a beautiful garden sculpture outside to inspire me. I need my kiln for firing but my best tools are a pair of steel tweezers that were £2.48 and I use every time I am in the shed also a large household paintbrush to sweep up as with enamelling you have to keep everything clean. That can be difficult when you have copper oxides bouncing of pieces when fired. |
Are there new techniques you would like to try?
I want to learn engraving to do beautiful silver boxes.
What have you learnt or the best advice you have received that you would like to share with fellow crafters?
I feel that you should always do what feels right for you. Don’t be offended if a person does not like your work. There are people out there that will. Make sure your finish is professional. Attend to the little details that make your item special.I want to create a large sculpture for a sculpture garden in my town. |
Media & Contact
Representation
Freelancing
Contact
Email: croftmhc@gmail.com
References
Website: www.enamelontheyarrow.co.uk
Instagram: enamelontheyarrow
Facebook: Enamel on the Yarrow
Photography credit
Heather Croft – Thirsk UK
Location
United Kingdom