An association of Cornwall's finest craft makers

Spear, Shelagh
Ceramics / Sculpture

Clay is a fascinating medium to work with, having the ability to transform itself as if by magic into a different state. The sculptures I make are each individually modeled. Weeks are spent on preparing each clay form leading up to the firings. I choose Raku as my firing method, partly for the pure excitement and spontaneity of it (a welcome contrast to the slower clay work).

I fire outdoors mainly at night because it is easier to see the colour of the fire and the glazes developing. Watching the sheer "alchemy" of the process still excites me. It can seem arcane and unpredictable but gives the aged surface qualities that I think the work demands.

Much of my recent work is of winged figures. The ability to fly, or to simply rise above the every day is something to which we can all aspire.