Sealed Earth (2022)

If I had to name two places where I find inner spaciousness and peace, it would be my studio and in nature.

This series of works titled Sealed Earth consists of sculptures, which are fairly literal representations of drawings from my sketchbook, and large vessels, which are allowed to grow much more freely.

Even though the sketches themselves are often done very quickly, the sculpting process is one of full concentration and exactitude. The vessels, in contrast, almost grow by themselves and I find the rhythmic coiling and pinching a very meditative and calming process.

I have chosen a terra sigiilata finish for most of the pieces in this series. Terra sigillata can be roughly translated as 'sealed earth’. Different coloured clays were refined into an ultra-fine slip and applied to the bisque ware, a process that lends a subtle sheen to the work.

The earthy colour scheme is inspired by a photo of a bush track near my home