BY CATCH
An evolving project. I love fish!
The inspiration for this project stems from my ongoing work influenced by the coast. I’ve particularly enjoyed exploring ceramics designed for outdoor environments, focusing on creating tactile, interactive pieces. My degree project, titled “Waves,” served as a pivotal moment, motivating me to showcase my work in exhibitions. These experiences have deepened my passion for ceramics and driven me to develop a larger-scale installation piece.
With a family history rooted in owning fish and chip shops, including my parents and other relatives, this topic felt like the ideal choice for my final project.
Inspired by salted cod hung under a pier I began designing my final piece.
Through my research, I came to appreciate the significance of enjoying traditional fish and chips, which ultimately became the centerpiece of my project. Like many others, especially those visiting the seaside, I wanted to continue savoring meals from my local chippy. With cod being my favorite fish, it naturally became the focus of my work.
Colour and mark-making play a central role in most of my ceramic pieces, so I drew inspiration from the unique markings found on cod fish.
I began by exploring shapes, creating paper formers to guide my designs. Using coloured slips, I experimented with patterns and incorporated lino prints to develop a cohesive template.
Through continuous experimentation with porcelain and various stoneware clays, I refined the design until I achieved the perfect balance of size, weight, shape, and pattern.
I was inspired to continue the theme of the sea, the coast, and my deep love for fish and chips. Around the time I was making this decision, there was significant news coverage about Brexit, European fishing laws, and, most importantly, the sustainability of our fishing waters.
In addition, I wanted to incorporate words and phrases inspired by newspapers, my dad's shop, and sustainable fishing websites. To bring these ideas to life, I experimented with screen printing. Using this technique, I transferred messages directly onto the porcelain, creating a unique and meaningful design.
Mackerel
Ceramic Mackerel Installation: "Party of Mackerel"
Discover the captivating artistry of the "Party of Mackerel," a unique ceramic mackerel installation that blends creativity and craftsmanship. This installation showcases a school of beautifully crafted ceramic mackerel, each designed with intricate detail and vibrant colours. Inspired by the natural elegance of marine life, the artwork brings a sense of movement and life to any space it inhabits. Perfect for galleries, coastal-themed interiors, or anyone with a love for ocean-inspired decor, the "Party of Mackerel" is a celebration of art and nature brought to life through the timeless medium of ceramics.