Christian Miller

I have over 35 years experience of all pottery construction techniques and
teaching ceramics. My practical and functional pieces of work stem from my
origins while training to throw in Holland in 1989 with a traditionalist potter
who was heavily influenced by Japanese ceramics . From here I developed a
style of form and the use of glazes. While studying BA (hons) in Ceramics I
continued to develop my ideas and techniques while designing my functional
sculptures in the form of teapots, bowls and vessels whilst still producing more
traditional and functional studios ceramics. I have now acquired an abundance
of knowledge and skills over the years which has enabled me to create my
work living in the heart of the Gower Peninsula where my pieces reflect an
interest and passion in the natural environment. The theme and background
behind my sculptural forms has been evolving over a lifetime of explorations of
my childhood home in Gower, and its complex geology coastline, unique micro
climate and beautiful sunset skies.
Many themes reflect man's interaction with his environment, simple tyre
tracks, footprints and structures on the coastline. Whitford sands with its
spectacular lighthouse was my playground as a child and is now my main point
of exploration for inspiration.
The construction of my ceramic forms have been mostly made in a
conventional way – with the use of a potters wheel. However, many of these
pieces require special techniques to be created. I use mixed media such as
copper, wood, shells and stone, and I strive to embody the sand, sea and sky of
Gower within my work thus making unique designs that define each piece. The
majority of my work has mid to high fired stoneware glaze covering each
piece, however on occasion when producing more sculptural forms, volcanic
crater glaze can be seen creating texture and colour throughout my work.