I mainly work with clay, specifically porcelain, to create sculptural works and contemporary tableware. Drawing and mixed media work play an important role in my artistic process. Whilst I’m trained in all areas of ceramic production I am particularly interested in realising my ideas through mould making and casting (using traditional and experimental methods) to create multiples and/or unique objects. The themes that underpin and unite my work relate to food and consumerism; personal and cultural heritage; memory and identity and the handcrafted object.
For many years I have collected, examined and transformed paper packaging and throwaway containers. Through poetic enquiry and attention to detail I transform the discarded into the desired collectible. One of my objectives is to extract visual and symbolic impact from what is all too readily discarded in everyday life. I aim to draw attention to our thoughtless consumption and use of natural resources and offer ways to reconnect with and create meaning from the everyday. My output is small as I strive for excellence in craftsmanship and beauty in design rather than quantity.
I have an ongoing fascination with clay and paper. Porcelain and corrugated cardboard are of particular interest, not only from an aesthetic point of view, but also because of their versatility as materials. I am particularly interested in exploring the chameleon like character of clay. I enjoy highlighting the making process, drawing on methods used not only in ceramics but also in textile and metal construction.
I was born and educated in Sydney and moved to the Macleay Valley in 2009. I live and work in Gladstone NSW. I have a Bachelor of Education (Art) from City Art Institute (now COFA) and a Bachelor of Fine Arts (Ceramics) from The National Art School, Sydney. Since commencing my professional practice in 1998 I have pursued an active exhibition agenda and I have won numerous awards and grants which have enabled me to travel and exhibit overseas. In 2003 an Australia Council for the Arts skills and development grant enabled me to present work and attend the opening of Transformation: New International Design at The Parsons School of Design, New York. I also completed a two month residency at The Museum of International Ceramic Art, Guldagergaard, Denmark. More recently my ceramics practice has been documented in a book titled Craft Unbound: Make The Common Precious by Kevin Murray, Craftsman House, 2005. I have work in private and public collections, namely The Powerhouse Museum in Sydney and The Museum of Modern Ceramic Art, Gifu, Japan.
