Barbara Andrews

My style of work is influenced by the intense patterns found in nature, especially those that suggest growth in a non-linear  way such as fractals or those that grow from microscopic beginnings to infinity. I am constantly discovering and simulated by my surrounding.

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I combine several making processes throwing, pinching, slabbing and slip casting. The diversity and opportunity provided by each process demands specific handling techniques and contributes further qualities to the clay. I liken pinched pots to thrown pots, the difference being the interference of the wheel - I deviate between the two to remind myself of the sensitivity of the clay.

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I enjoy manipulating the raw thrown work and the use these forms at the starting point for much of my work. Each form is then altered and reworked at the varying stages of hardness, mostly holding it in my hands as this imparts certain personal characteristics. I also enjoy the possibility of being able to push the clay to its physical limit determining whether the object survives or perishes in my hands.

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At the moment I am working mostly in porcelain. It provides me with all the necessary requirements, such as; preciousness, purity, delicacy and fragility - qualities that I wish to convey in my work.