Creative Medium: Stoneware pottery

Q1. What artist has influenced you the most?

I admire many potters and have learnt from most of them. A finished piece of pottery is the result of a multitude of small techniques and as I work I remember with gratitude all the generous potters who have demonstrated their skills for others over the years

Q2. What is it that inspires you most in Norfolk?

Much of my inspiration comes from the clay itself and the magic that happens in the heat of the kiln but I am always on the lookout for natural things like leaves, seeds and shells that can be pressed into the clay to create textures. Ideas for one off pieces often originate when I am out walking in Breckland with my dog, not necessarily inspired by the landscape but the peace and solitude free up my mind to explore new directions.

Q3. If you had to pick a favourite past artwork of yours what would it be?

There is one piece that I made many years ago that I would not part with. I was commissioned to make a jug based on the 14th century Grimston ware. It had a face on the rim and I was lucky enough to be lent an original fragment to copy. After the commission had been filled I made another one for myself which turned out to be much better than the first one. It was glazed with a lovely apple ash glaze that I had just developed and everything worked just as I had hoped – a rare occurrence!

Q4. What are you working on at the movement?

I have been invited to take part in a sculpture trail at Hoveton Hall in the summer so I am planning work for the garden. At the moment I have a few bird baths going through the Kilns and other garden/conservatory ideas are incubating. I am sure that I will revisit the Green Man if I have the time.

Q5. Can you choose 5 words that best describes your art?

Useful, colourful, traditional, durable, domestic.