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 emphasises 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 becoming 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 an understanding of the shape, it is through careful manipulation, alterations of the surface with clastic sedimentary stones and oxides that the exterior appearance of the vessel is derived. Textures from the Earth series of work reflects my link to the physical landscape whilst creating individual artistic responses through the medium of clay.