Russell
I work in the Slipware tradition. Its roots in North Devon are what drew me to it. Its humble origins of the everyday medieval pot to its vibrant place in today's studio pottery are what kept me captivated. My pots are made for the kitchen, oven and table with function at their heart to enhance the everyday cooking and eating experience.
My work, while being deeply rooted in North Devon's heritage and country pottery traditions, has a contemporary freshness to it. My pots are thrown, slabbed and extruded. I use very minimal tools or ribs, in order to preserve the human touch and champion the making processes. My work is made quickly with confidence, capturing the energy of the making. The same approach is taken with my use of Slip. This is all in keeping with the country pottery traditions. I do this with aesthetic in mind resulting in exciting pots full of life.
My slip decoration is fluid, energetic and a celebration of clay in its liquid form. It echoes our rich slipware past. Inspired by both the 17th/18th century Staffordshire slipware dishes and modern sliptrailing Masters alike while having my own distinct style and artistic voice. I believe the best traditions move and progress with time. My goal is to be moving forwards while always looking backwards...