Jemma Elsley

My passion for creating started from a early age, having an artistic outlook on life felt deeply rooted within me, from picking up a pencil for the first time and mark making, to making Sindy doll furniture from cardboard and fabric. My creative journey followed a path of general art and design, gaining skills in elements such as life drawing, printmaking, photography and model making at foundation stage. Having explored a range of disciplines, I chose to specialise in 3D design, gaining a HND in Ceramics & Glass at Plymouth University in 1996 and a BA Hons in Ceramics at The University of Wales, Cardiff (UWIC) in 1998. My work has diversified over the years as either my inspiration has altered, or market trends have changed and transformed. Either way, my ceramic work has always incorporated hand-building methods, printed surfaces and an attention to detail with modelled features. A relocation from Wiltshire to West Wales in 2018 enabled me to establish my current studio and develop a range of work inspired by the wildlife and landscape around me. My current work has also been inspired by the beautiful Pembrokeshire countryside where I live. From the steep rolling hills and rugged coastline, to the beauty within the hedgerows and banks along the quiet country lanes. Exploring details such as the wildflowers on my doorstep, interesting plants within the hedgerows and the wealth of wildlife that lives and needs protecting in the county, everything has triggered an idea or starting point. Over the years I have experimented with a wide range of ideas, processes and techniques, with my focus and passion lying predominately within hand-building and sculpting. I love incorporating details, wording and printing methods within my work and spend time designing and illustrating as part of the process. My pieces fuse together my love of both surface pattern & texture, modelling and sculpting. My earthenware forms are finished using coloured slips, underglaze colours and earthenware glazes.