Ceramic work is hand thrown using either earthenware or porcelain clays, some pieces are formed using a selection of parts, which are then assembled by hand and fired up to temperatures of around 1100 degrees for earthenware and 1300 degrees for porcelain. My work attempts to create parallels between contemporary Fine Art and Craft practices.
The Highland landscape is a constant, ever changing influence in my work, drawing inspiration from the light, space and reflective qualities this vast landscape offers. Forms are classical yet contemporary defined by crisp elegant lines and flowing shapes; inspired by ancient Greek pottery and Japanese as well as the art and architecture of South East Asia.
Contrast is an important aspect to my work the interplay between control and unpredictability, traditional and contemporary, solid but with a feeling of lightness, despite these contrasting qualities I always aspire to create something that is both beautiful and complete. I enjoy the interplay of more organic and fortuitous surfaces applied to these controlled forms which create a distinct finish to the work. With porcelain clay I appreciate the lightness and fragility it provides with its translucent qualities which reflect the elegance and refinement I strive to achieve in my forms.
New work fuses both ceramic and bronze materials to provide an innovative exploration of the two mediums I am most passionate about. Using both these materials within one form allows me to adapt very different approaches during the creative process, firstly by throwing on the potter’s wheel which is a very symmetrical process compared to the abstract experience of working roughly with a piece of bronze. With earthenware pieces I apply metallic lustres to the ceramic surface which share the reflective quality I look for when working in bronze. I don’t believe in colouring the bronze surface when there is such an opportunity to exploit the natural richness of its true surface, choosing only to patinate when creating a contrasting effect.
I am influenced by many of today’s contemporary potters not only by the works they produce but their commitment to practice and technique; a particular influence from the world of sculpture is Constantin Brancusi
Daniel Kavanagh 2009
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