For me working with clay is creating visual poetry which requires the immediate and complete involvement of all my senses. The process of working in clay, kneading and spiralling, connects me to the earth. Like alchemy with fire, my artistic expression is transformed into stone. The sometimes unanticipated outcomes in clay work provide positive opportunities for personal growth – these unpredictable results of the dance keep me grounded and humble. Working in clay literally enhances my health and well-being and provides a means to express my inner-most self.

My work is informed by strong visual and tactile pattern and form. I am greatly influenced by the ancient – Japanese Johan period coiled vessels; Mycean free flow painted designs; early Chinese Sung and Tang dynasty carvings; and the forms and pure design in Nasca figurative sculpture. I’m equally influenced by the modern – the line, form, pattern and colour of Matisse, and Seurat’s use of linear direction to convey emotion. Even the everyday provides constant inspiration – facial expressions of strangers passed on the street; the play of light on long grass in the breeze; and tree bark after rain.

My sculptures are hand built and coiled, large and fired between 1200o and 1280o. I describe them as being built like inverted vessels. The walls are melded, alternating inside and out, according to the shape being formed.

CV available on request.