The Process
Every piece starts at the wheel.
Some pieces are more complex than others and may be thrown separately, then assembled together.
I work mainly with two types of clay: a white stoneware and a toasty, warm clay ironically named Burren.
Every piece is carefully thought through to find the best balance of function and aesthetics, and to work out which clay body pairs best with which glaze.
Adding Details
After the initial shaping, many pieces go through a stage of adding detail and texture. This is the part I specialise in carving, adding texture with various tools, and sometimes applying slip or underglaze to an area. Over the years I've developed my own carving, slip-application, and underglaze-painting techniques that I'm quite proud of, and that set my work apart from others.
Once a piece is finished, it goes through the drying process. This critical stage is followed by the first firing, known as the bisque firing, which hardens the clay and prepares it for glazing. My pieces are often slow in the making, as they involve many steps to achieve all the details.
I strive to bring my ceramic pieces to life, capturing the essence of Ireland's natural beauty and rich cultural heritage in every careful step.
I love shaping pieces on the wheel, it gives me flexibility and enough room to experiment.
A particular fascination of mine is creating double-walled pieces, where the outer layer is carved and negative spaces are cut away, such as in my Celtic knot vases. These intricate designs invite viewers to discover hidden details within each piece.
Glazing and Final Firing
The next stage involves applying glazes, carefully chosen to enhance the form and texture of each piece. The glazes are often inspired by the vibrant colours of the Irish landscape, from the deep greens of its fields to the blues of its coastal waters.
My glazing process is often complex, as I use more than one glaze on a single pot, applied with care. I also use a technique where I apply the glaze, then carefully wipe it back so it settles between the carved details.
After glazing, the ceramics are fired again at a higher temperature, in a process called the glaze firing. This melts the glaze, bonding it to the clay and creating a durable, often glossy finish. This step is essential for achieving the piece's final look and function.
Each piece undergoes a final inspection to make sure it meets my high standards of quality and artistry. This rigorous process ensures that every piece from Ceramics by Anne is not just an object, but a testament to craftsmanship and passion.
It's an honour to share my process, and the beauty of Irish-inspired ceramic art, with you.