That Scene from ‘Ghost’
When you think about pottery or ceramics do you imagine characters Sam & Molly throwing that pot from that scene on the potter’s wheel?
Warning: Only those of a more mature age will know what I am referring to 😉
‘Throwing’ is the term used to describe the entire activity of shaping the clay on the potter's wheel. And if you are wondering who on earth Sam & Molly are they are the characters from infamous scene in Ghost better know as Demi Moore & Patrick Swayze. I have added a link to the clip for you to swoon over below 😂😂
Yes, that scene from the film 'Ghost' all those years ago has a lot to answer for.....Just look at that picture. Who wouldn't want to take up pottery after seeing that..?
I have to admit, throwing on the wheel is fun. But it does take great skill and a lot of practice for that mug or bowl you want to make to not turn into something a bit more abstract. Hand-building on the other hand, which is what I do, is a much more manageable skill to master and the possibilities of what you can create are enormous. Using slabs of clay, in my opinion, is a really exciting way to produce shapes that are not possible on the wheel. There are three basic methods of hand-building, pinch, coil and slab construction. Anyone that did pottery in school has probably made a few pinch pots or some coil building in their day.
All the above pieces are made from rolled out slabs of clay which are cut and then moulded into the shape I want to construct. Picture one is a garden Sculpture form 1994, way back in my college days. Picture 4 is Planter Centrepiece from 2020 and only made to order. Pictures 2 and 3 are my current range and are available from my Shop In Ireland store
My method of making has not changed much but my finished pieces today have evolved into something more commercial. Today I focus more on the beauty created by nature. My work maintains an element of being eroded and fragile but the flora and fauna bring life to the piece. I like to think that it is a reminder that life can survive or adapt to any storm that comes our way and it's always the imperfections that make it unique. I allow the natural qualities of the slab of clay to help me form the shape the piece will take on.
I make ceramics because I love to work with clay, it is just what I am naturally drawn to do. I am happiest in my workshop surrounded by my tools and equipment making my Vases, Wall Plaques & Candleholders.
I share my work because I want you to experience that feeling of joy and love and appreciation that I feel making it. You choose to buy my work because you see the beauty and uniqueness in the finished piece maybe it makes you smile and feel good looking at it. When you go on to give it as a gift you are spreading that joy. How chuffed you feel when you see the recipients face light up because of your thoughtfulness. It’s personal!
My Happy Place :-)
My work is unique to me, everything is created by hand no two pieces will ever be the same, there will be some variations in the colours and sizes. There will be evidence of the maker's (my) hand that gives my work an authenticity which you won't get from mould made, mass produced products. I am committed to remaining a craft based business. I will not be able to mass produce my work. I respect each stage of the process and I want you to love and appreciate the time and effort that goes into producing it. Transforming that soft wet lump of clay into something really beautiful and permanent for you to enjoy, that is my joy.
Now here's that scene from 'Ghost' I promised you...Enjoy
Have a look my work; Creative Clay at ShopinIreland.ie