So much of my work is currently focused on a geological and geographical exploration of  place, hunting for possible clay sources or the materials I could use in glazing, and the subsequent testing of all of these materials that seems to go on for ever (indeed – it may well go on indefinitely – as each batch of gathered natural or wild clay or rock dust will vary)…..  But alongside this aspect of my work, and the photographic recording of the places I visit, that I see as vital, there is the absolute necessity to concentrate on my practice as a ceramicist, and particularly the throwing that is so central in the creation of functional work that I prioritise….

In order to keep improving both what I produce, but also the narrative behind this, I need to keep practicing with form and technique. Over this past year and over the past weeks in lockdown, I have spent some time experimenting with throwing various key shapes and forms, and throwing off the hump as well as directly onto the wheel or onto a batt. Tea bowls, breakfast bowls, mortaria, pancheons, whisky tumblers, beer beakers – have tended to receive most attention…..

Mortarium experimentation

Aubergine glaze with Octomore Farm clay cuach – this glaze uses a metamorphic sandstone rock dust from Granny’s Rock, near Machir Bay, taken from dust excavated by rabbits at the bottom of the cliff face. Courtesy of Kate Hannett

Well of the True Water clay cuach, with home made earthenware glaze

Test tumbler, 100% Islay clay with Clee Hill glaze and copper splash on rim

Test tumbler with glaze test using limonite and mudstone

Clee Hill clay and glaze small batch of pint beakers

Ockeridge clay small batch of x6 pint beakers

Baking set; baking crock, pancheon and bowl for setting leaven

Throwing a bowl off the “hump”….