Thames Matter: Fragments 1.1

Thames Matter is a collection of work created through collecting both materials and inspiration directly from the River Thames foreshore.

This piece, titled Thames Matter: Fragments 1.2, is inspired by eroded rocks and areas of dried clay noticed along the foreshore. As the clay dried, it pulled away from the surface, breaking apart and creating fragmented, irregular forms. I was drawn to the contrast between the solid, weathered rocks and the delicate cracks and fragments within the dried clay, which informed the form and surface of the vessel.

The main form and added details are made from a 1:3 blend of London clay, sourced from the Thames, and a black stoneware clay. The textures have been created using pure Thames slip and an ash glaze made from materials gathered along the Thames Foreshore. A central area of detail has been created by applying a sponge-like material found along the foreshore, which was then coated with glaze. The material burns away in the kiln, while the texture recorded by the glaze remains.

Dimensions:  19 x 47 cm