In my current work I use a multi-fired ceramic process. The final low temperature firing uses coloured lustres including gold and platinum. Because the surface decoration is not representational the marks and strokes are similar to those used in painting and printing.

Textures and colours are layered much like painting with many marks and colours almost lost within the working of the surfaces. The surface decoration design is mostly intuitive as are the shapes and forms that develop through the use of a very plastic clay body which I mix myself.

Although I start with some design ideas the final shapes and forms grow through working with the clay, manipulating and planishing the surface. Sgraffito-ing reveals the various layers of engobes and underglazes that are applied. 

The glaze colours are wet and glossy against a matt body. Using a very wide colour palette enables surfaces to become complex and free moving. Some effects are as a result of the firing process and are a calculated risk developed through experience, but there are still surprises.

I do not produce Standard Ware but individual pieces, one-offs. I concern myself with the nature of my interaction and total involvement with the whole making process. A consideration for the aesthetics of a well made piece are not the only goals but the pleasure of making is. I am not concerned with success, for want of a better term, and regard an unsuccessful firing as part of the process that I am involved in. The opening of the kiln can be a nervious experience, but the appreciation of others, who want to own a piece themselves, has its rewards