We ’ d love to know more about the creative process ? Do you plan the pieces ?
When planning a piece , I will always do a rough sketch of the shape to see how I envisage it coming together . I don ’ t use a pottery guage for measurements and tend to go more with the flow ; honouring the rhythm of the wheel – this just feels more natural to me . Anything can influence how the clay takes shape , whether that be your mood , the environment or even the music I am listening to – I take a lot of inspiration from music and have created some of my favourite pieces listening to the iconic afro-jazz artist , Fela Kuti . I also think a more free approach allows every single piece to have its own personality ; no two pieces are exactly the same , and that ’ s the beauty of it . Growing up , everyone in our family had their own mug or plate , our cupboards were a complete mismatch of beautiful crockery and that very much comes through in my work – even if it ’ s the same collection , there may be slight variations or differences .
Is there anything other than music that inspires your work ?
I love art , and often take inspiration from gallery and museum visits , as well as spending time in nature . Also my dog ; Bonnie , she has been a huge influence , so much so that I have , The Bonnie Collection ; the colours are very similar to her coat . Other than that , rock formations , plant life and the colours of the
surrounding landscapes influence the shapes , types of clay and glazes that I use .
Nature is probably the primary inspiration as I mentioned above , but I am drawn to the primitive designs of the Roman , Iron Age and Neanderthal eras .
How would you describe your style ?
I think it is fair to say that it is nearly impossible to create unique work when it comes to ceramics . Most households have everyday items that they will use throughout the day , but I think sometimes we take that for granted . There is a real aesthetic beauty about those everyday objects and how they influence our mood , energy and senses . Mass-made ceramics often lose that , there is a lack of connection and inspiration . My hand thrown pieces are unique to me , as they are influenced by my journey , my stories and moreover my hands . I don ’ t want to be provocative or outlandish , but instead have a direct connection with my customers . I would say my style is quite minimalist , I ’ m not one for bold colour ( maybe a splash here and there ) but it ’ s just not me .
Have you got a highlight , or a favourite piece that sticks in mind ?
I have a couple of pieces that stick in mind , some of the pieces for the upcoming exhibition I really like – I was just chuffed when I made a vase and it came out how I wanted it . But , the project I am most proud of is creating a range of plates for Michelin Starred restaurant , STARK Broadstairs . Ben Crittenden gave me a rough outline of what he envisaged and I was left to develop a family of shapes , sizes and glazes .
Where can people find your work ?
I have just exhibited several pieces at Eastcliff House Gallery in Mistley , Essex and Pie Factory Margate . I am also working on a collaboration with herd . the new fine dining steak restaurant in Canterbury to create pieces for their chef ’ s table and dining room . In terms of seeing my work in the flesh , I have suppliers across the county including KAGU in Tenterden , No . 3 in Lenham and my webshop : failte . shop – it ' s really touching to be approached by people who are interested in showcasing my work .
www . failte . shop
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