Andrew Richards
I approach the making of my vessels with energy and immediacy, working on the form and its surfaces during the process of making and drying. My application of slips and oxides alter the surface and the layering of materials added to the vessel emphasise the plasticity and surface qualities of clay whilst achieving the feel of a landscape.
I seek to push the boundaries of the pot/clay to become an abstract object in the art ceramic sculptural world. I begin with thrown or hand built clay forms, I use the wheel to shape the exterior surface.
While I may have an idea and understanding of the shape, it is through careful manipulation, alterations with the surface with clastic sedimentary stones and oxides that the exterior of the vessel is derived. Textures from the Earth series of work reflects the landscape of the Welsh landscape and coastline.
The layering of 200 million year old clastic sedimentary stones, beach quartz, granite, brushed and layered Anglesey copper and glazes adds colour and textural effects that are harmonious to each piece making each vessel unique and individual.
I am collecting rocks, clastic sedimentary stones, natural oxides, and fossils from different parts of the UK and these will be incorporated into new work this year and create pottery sculptural vessels unique to that area of Britain, Scotland, Wales.