Caroline Lee

I grew up in South-West Scotland, surrounded by nature and rugged landscape. I now live in Rotherham, South Yorkshire.

Natural forms are the main influences on my work, from geology to tree bark and leaves. Most of my pieces are hand-built but I enjoy throwing on the wheel too. I love experimenting: inlaying, piercing, colouring the clay body, burnishing and the random nature of sawdust-firing. Rims are often a feature, sometimes ragged like distant mountain peaks.

Some of my ceramics have been shown in the industry periodical Ceramic Review and in the newsletter of the Northern Potters’ Association. All of my work is created in my workshop at home.

The image submitted is of a piece of current work, inspired by a strip of bark from a silver birch tree, which I found washed up on a North Yorkshire beach. It is titled ‘Tree Dressing’ I created my piece by using black clay decorated with slips and stains. I also used the technique known as sgraffito on the surface.

As well as creating my own work I teach ceramics part-time to students of all abilities and in a variety of contexts such as for Rotherham College of Arts & Technology and for the Workers’ Educational Association in Rotherham and Doncaster. I undertake commissions, workshops and public demonstrations.

craft&design Selected Awards 2012

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