I create objects with a harmonious connection between surface and form. My pieces are formally inspired by simple ceramic profiles and the highly textured surface is a response to my fascination for touch.
The tactile qualities of my artefacts are inspired by textures that surround us such as; tree bark, natural rocks, cracking paint and even marine life. The thrown vessel is used as a canvas to investigate the properties of these surfaces. Metal oxides add depth whilst the gold, platinum and copper lustre adds a sense of opulence.
No two pieces are ever the same; this is intentional, as I feel each piece has its own story to tell. I want the viewer to interact with the work through touch and perhaps see if they can feel the pots journey. Each item is fired several times due to the different temperatures in which I fire; this gives me the opportunity to re-fire vessels to add more oxide or lustre.
It is the range of textural qualities that can be obtained from different clays and materials taken from the ground that really excites me as a ceramicist. The various approaches to creating these unique surfaces, through a range of techniques is of constant interest.
Alex McCarthy website www.mccarthyceramics.com
Exhibiting in The Pottery
Thursday 6pm – 8pm
Friday 10am-6pm
Saturday 10am – 6pm
Sunday 11am – 5pm
