Rachel Jane Holland

Working from my studio in Carrington (South Manchester) I create a range of hand thrown earthenware ceramics. I started by throwing forms to decorate, and decoration is still my passion. Whilst at university I was captivated by the work of some of Britain's best slipware potters, such as Mary Wondraush and Clive Bowen. I sought out their inspirations and was influenced greatly by traditional 18th Century European pottery. My work also has echoes of the 'Arts and Crafts' era, with the trailing leaf designs and the bold text adorning some of my pieces.

I hand mix a unique blend of earthenware clays for my work, combining the rich colour and texture of the red clay with the strong creamy consistency of the white. Each piece is embellished with an individually designed organic pattern, inspired by the local flora and fauna. My range includes a collection of plates, bowls, bottles, beakers and jugs.The designs are created by sgraffito; drawing through white slip to reveal the red clay body beneath. They are hand painted with a natural palette of slips and stains. The pieces are bisque fired to 1000ºC, then fired again to 1140ºC with a clear earthenware glaze.