New Skye Range
I first started making pots for a living some 35 years ago. Back then, I had little money, red earthenware clay was cheap and the firing costs low so I began using terracotta clay, thrown on an electric wheel to make decorated kitchenware which I've been using ever since.
However, in recent years I have felt the need to explore different approaches to the clay and the making process. This exploration has led to some large scale garden sculptures, some gas fired Raku and a new range of white domestic ware which I've called my Skye range because it reminds me of the beautiful land and seascapes on the Isle of Skye.
Working with red and white clay in the same work area can be tricky so I needed a separate wheel for the new white earthenware. I have recently bought a 60 year old Leach type kick wheel which I love. No motor, so, silent and slow moving compared to my electric wheel, which means a whole new way of throwing pots. I leave the throwing rings and the sometimes slightly wobbly finish which happens naturally, aiming for a more lively, less machine made look. When they've dried, I fire the pots and then glaze them, trying to keep the lively look by pouring different glazes quickly over a standard white zircon glaze. The final firing is high for earthenware which means the finished pots are durable and fine for the dishwasher.