CENTRE FOR MODERN & CONTEMPORARY
STUDIO CERAMICS AND ORIGINAL ARTWORK

Fleen says

I am currently pursuing my interest in wood fired salt-glaze with guidance and mentoring from Micki Schloessingk, with whom I am doing an apprenticeship. I am in the fortunate position of receiving funding and support from the ‘Adopt a Potter’ trust.

Within this body of work I have enjoyed exploring the effect that salt and ash have within the firing, enhancing simple mark-making and defining textures. Having previously focused on developing a cool celadon glaze I am now enjoyed the earthy warmth of the colours that have emerged from this firing.

By making pots in small groups the pieces hold an overall sense of belonging and likeness, however throughout the making process I allow the character of each piece to show. I purposefully leave traces of the making process and allow the innate beauty and character of the clay to show.

The clay itself is a big inspiration to me and I try to capture the same freshness in a finished piece that I enjoy when the pot is being thrown on the wheel. I purposefully leave traces of the making process and allow the innate beauty and character of the clay to show in a finished piece. This is reflected in the firing, on some pieces I leave the outside of the pot bare, the salt-glaze forms with the clay itself and allows the clay body to be appreciated in the finished piece.

By making pots in small groups the pieces hold an overall sense of belonging and likeness, however throughout the making process I allow the character of each piece to show and celebrate the individual."