Mastering Controlled Chaos: A Gas Kiln Ceramics Adventure |
Before I embarked on my ceramic journey at Clay College in Middleport, my career path was anything but conventional. I pursued studies in Japanese and philosophy at university, followed by a stint in law, finance, and advertising. All the while, my evenings were dedicated to a pottery co-operative, housed in a disused biscuit factory in Bermondsey.
However, when the biscuit factory was sold to developers, I decided to take a leap of faith. I began amassing a collection of second-hand pottery tools, equipment, and chemicals. Eventually, I rented a small garage space to transform into my workshop. Each evening, I'd rush home from my day job to spend hours in my newfound sanctuary, learning, experimenting, and indulging in my newfound passion.
During this transformative period, I realized that working with earth, fire, and raw materials was more than a hobby—it was a calling. I spent nearly a year hunting for apprenticeship opportunities before securing a spot in the inaugural cohort of Clay College.
Since graduating, my journey has been a whirlwind. I've collaborated with TV and film companies, both as a consultant and a creator. I've exhibited my work at several shows, and I currently serve as a tutor in UCA's ceramics department, where I'm inspired by the enthusiasm and creativity of my students, especially in challenging times.
I'm an unapologetic pyromaniac, fascinated by the transformations that occur when objects and materials are exposed to temperatures nearing 1300°C. When I explore new places, I often collect intriguing rocks, envisioning the colors and qualities they might exhibit when fired. I ponder the geological processes these rocks have undergone over millions of years and attempt to predict their fate in the kiln.
However, when the biscuit factory was sold to developers, I decided to take a leap of faith. I began amassing a collection of second-hand pottery tools, equipment, and chemicals. Eventually, I rented a small garage space to transform into my workshop. Each evening, I'd rush home from my day job to spend hours in my newfound sanctuary, learning, experimenting, and indulging in my newfound passion.
During this transformative period, I realized that working with earth, fire, and raw materials was more than a hobby—it was a calling. I spent nearly a year hunting for apprenticeship opportunities before securing a spot in the inaugural cohort of Clay College.
Since graduating, my journey has been a whirlwind. I've collaborated with TV and film companies, both as a consultant and a creator. I've exhibited my work at several shows, and I currently serve as a tutor in UCA's ceramics department, where I'm inspired by the enthusiasm and creativity of my students, especially in challenging times.
I'm an unapologetic pyromaniac, fascinated by the transformations that occur when objects and materials are exposed to temperatures nearing 1300°C. When I explore new places, I often collect intriguing rocks, envisioning the colors and qualities they might exhibit when fired. I ponder the geological processes these rocks have undergone over millions of years and attempt to predict their fate in the kiln.
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The Great Pottery Throw Down (2019, 2020 & 2021) |
University for the Creative Arts
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Clay College, Stoke on Trent (2017)
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Wedgwood (2019)
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Kansai Gaidai University, Japan (2008)
- Foundation in clay: Gained in Japan
- University in Japan: Studied pottery and Japanese language
- Degree: Philosophy and Japanese Studies
- Emphasis on handmade ceramics
- Acquired traditional Japanese techniques
- Still incorporate these techniques in current practice