I first became interested in ceramics following a visit to my close friend in studio at the time, Lucas Garvey @lucasjgarvey in Eindhoven, The Netherlands. From there I caught the 'ceramic bug' and was obsessed. I made a ceramic bone and a bone holder for my then girlfriend who is now my wife.
On returning to Dublin I contacted local studios to gain access to their kiln. I knew this was the main obstacle in really starting to make things. However, in Dublin, I found the opportunities quite limiting in terms of being able to use community resources unless you are a member of a studio, a resident or a college student. So studios such as the Fire Station's Artist Studio had noted to me that they lend their kilns for a cost to people for the sake of art. However my pursuit was slightly different.
As a result of being completely untrained professionally myself, I began to research and learn as much as I could through resources available online. I bought John Britt's mid range glazes book and listened to the ceramic materials workshop podcast on a regular basis. I started to put together glaze recipes in diaries and kept track of materials I needed. To date, I have primarily worked with porcelain. Everything on the website as you see it, is made of porcelain.
I remember coming across plaster molds and slip casting wet clay to create interesting designs. From here, I started following artists such as Kenny Sing and Matt Horne in their use of silicone/plaster molds to make very unusual creations. I hadn't seen any Irish artist make anything like this. I was stunned, fascinated and completely excited about the possibilities.
I spent the last 3 years learning how to use the 3d design software, Blender in order to create these molds and shapes. As well as that, I saved up money to buy a 3d resin printer as well an oxidation kiln in order to have control over the process with ease from our home. Through this labour of love, myself and my friend Luke built the workshop in the shed in my garden in order for the space to exist, where everything started falling into place.
So that brings us to today. This year for our first product, I have designed this ribbed diamond shaped bauble. The glaze that is painted on the outside of the shape melts in the kiln over its ridges and hills at an astounding 1220° Celsius. The nature of the shape that dips and folds dictates the pattern of design depending on what materials are used.
This will be our first Christmas with the bauble products for sale. Following this, I have many more ideas that are in the works that I hope you will enjoy, throughout next year.
We are hoping to build from here with this community, to involve others and share our passion for craft, design and ceramics.
- Michael