‘Signs of Life’
This collection of ceramics is inspired by the variations and idiosyncrasies visible in human forms, focusing on skeletons and medical imagery. They explore traces of human life investigating identity and illness. Each piece is generically the same, but has become unique through the process of throwing. This allows me to create related forms that reflect my research into bones. Each piece relates to a specific illness or biological event. Altered by slicing to emphasise a look of decay; creating cuts and angular marks, making holes revealing the inside of the form where colour is exposed representing the internal structures highlighted in medical imagery.
I have sought to fuse medicine with ceramic craft to create visually stimulating pieces. There is a natural beauty captured in the microscopic and internal structures of the human body. Medicine is a part of life and I aim to bring science and art together.
I am a graduate of the University of Brighton, BA Hons 3D Materials Practice, and currently teaching Design and Technology. Within my ‘Signs of Life’ body of work I have made five films that explore the subtle hints of life, looking at presence and absence in un-homely places. To inspire and support my ceramics I create medical drawings using ink, wax and watercolour. Please visit my website to view these.
Winner of the Santander-Abbey Award 2009 for excellence in arts and design.
