I worked as a scenic artist for many years, in theatres all around Britain. A scenic artist is mostly concerned with surface and texture, a ceramicist with form; I explore both in my work, using the elemental nature of clay and rock to inform and inspire. No experience is wasted.

As a mature student I returned to art college to study ceramics, my first love. I was awarded a BA Hons in Ceramics at Plymouth College of Art in the summer of 2016, and an MA in Ceramic Design at BathSpa University, School of Art and Design, 2021.

I make and teach in my studio at Holwell, near Widecombe in the Moor, and offsite in schools, colleges and craft workshop venues. Earlier this year I showed ‘Rippon’ at Make SouthWest, the result of a year’s collaboration with painter/printmaker Anita Reynolds, (images in the gallery section). Collaboration with another artist, and the support of MakeSW was a hugely rewarding experience. It prompted a progression in my work, remaining focussed on containers and holding vessels, but within parameters informed by our work together and the exhibition timeframe. This was followed by another joint show, with 3 other artists all looking at Dartmoor, ‘285’, in June, again, the conversations and thinking surrounding this project led to new work. Artists so often work alone, these collaborative opportunities are invaluable.

I have always been interested in inclusivity in the arts, and have worked with people with all kinds of disabilities throughout my career. Clay is a wonderful medium for self expression, and for enjoying the challenges of learning skills, thinking with one's hands and concentrating on something other than the day to day. People in the studio at Holwell often say, 'this is so therapeutic', which makes me feel very content.

I see much of my teaching as facilitation, I help people to make their ideas. My clay groups include all abilities, children, teenagers and adults, sometimes family sessions which are always fun. I'm continually delighted by the range of expression achieved with one simple material, clay.

I was awarded a BathSparks Enterprise Award during the Covid pandemic, enabling the purchase of an all weather gazebo for outdoor work at Holwell Studio, so that we could increase the space for workshops, it’s still well used.

I firmly believe that 'making is good for you'.