Gwen Vaughan
"I strive to illustrate, rather than mimic form"
My figurative sculptural pieces are made using the traditional, tactile technique of pinching. Hollow forms are paddled into the desired shape, the finishing details are modelled and then attached. They have their origin in the rich Staffordshire tradition of ornament and our human need to adorn our homes with beautiful decorative objects.
I use a rich black earthenware clay with washes of underglaze and oxides to enhance textural detail. A playful element is introduced by the addition of a vibrant palette of colour and a hint of gold lustre.
I have previously illustrated for agencies in London and Manchester; producing images for children’s books and stationery products. The character and feel of my illustrations have been a large influence in my ceramics. I strive to illustrate, rather than mimic form.