Tell us a little about what you make?
I create cheerful and quirky little pieces of art, using ceramic sculpture, driftwood, vintage treasures, beach finds, scavenged wire and re-purposed fabric.
What inspires you and where do you find that inspiration?
The things around me inspire me, my go-to favourite place is the beach, here I collect my driftwood, litter pick and fill my soul! Often I take a tea break sitting by my little stream contemplating the oak trees and what’s around me just letting my mind wander!
Tell us about your favourite medium.
Clay! I love clay, it’s versatility and accessibility. I’ve worked with clay for more than 30 years, and for many of those I worked alongside adults with learning disabilities.
Since moving to Wales 8 years ago I’ve concentrated on my own art. I work in a white earthenware because it does what I want it to and I’ve found that I love mixing up materials alongside the clay sculptures that I create. I still facilitate workshops, and do love to work with a group of people, because creating brings so many rewards and benefits to people.
What are your favourite and least favourite parts of being an artist or maker?
My favourite part of being a maker is the creating, being in The Shed, hanging out with my dog and just playing!
Least favourite part has to be the admin, any admin, all the admin!
What does being a member of the Ceredigion Art and Craft Trail mean to you?
As artists and makers, we often work alone, so it’s good to be part of something bigger, to connect with other artists, and I love being able to take part in group shows.
How do you manage a work-life balance as an artist/maker?
I feel very fortunate to mostly be able to set my own hours, to take advantage of creative whims when they occur and that my workspace is at my home. I do need deadlines though, otherwise I would start too many things and finish none! I do find that some days are long, but then I can take a day off when I want to. I have Lupus, an auto immune disease so being my own boss has made my life ‘easier’.
What are you working on at the moment?
I am looking forward to up coming shows and creating pieces for those and for some of the lovely Galleries who stock my work. I’ve also got a new clay to play with, paper porcelain so I shall be seeing where that takes me!
How do you know when your work is finished?
It tells me it’s done! When I have a feeling of satisfaction in the piece that is in front of me, then I think it’s finished.
What is the biggest challenge of being an artist/maker?
I think the biggest challenge is making a living out of it, and the fluctuations of income, and sometimes knowing what direction to go in to to make that happen.
What advice would you give to new artists or makers at the start of their creative journey?
Be led by your heart, have fun, find your people. I don’t know if that’s good advice though!
