Contour 6, 'the outer hill' Thrown and hand built, raku fired ht 11cm, ø 23cm
I use combinations of hand building and throwing to make my pots and to develop the textures. Using a wide spectrum of firing methods, from low temperature raku to oxidised earthenware and wood fired stoneware I am trying to bring my work closer to its source - the land and how we live upon it. I find that the clay itself will naturally develop textures which suggest the patterns in the hills and world around me - contours, dry stone dykes, sheep tracks, old pathways, standing stones, dry bogs, mounds of moss. I like to contain these textures into tactile objects, like small enclosed worlds or wall hung pieces which suggest wide open landscapes.
I love the processes involved in turning clay to ceramic; reflecting huge elemental forces of nature to produce objects of humility for sharing food. Pottery making is a fundamental interaction with our world and the stuff it is made of, the mug in my hand is of the same material as the mountains I look at. I think this connection inspires my continuing love of functional ceramics and I am working with wood fired stoneware to develop this.
I work from a small studio with wide views across the sea to the mainland. Visitors are welcome but it's always best to phone ahead for directions.
Patricia Shone
Contour 10, 'flat earth' Thrown and hand built, raku fired. ht 15 x ø 31cm
