Jane Emmerson
Ceramic art
The years I spent at West Surrey College of Art and Design in Farnham (now the University for the Creative Arts) were golden years. After graduating in 3D-Design (Ceramics) I taught there in the studio and lectured in the History of Ceramics. This gave me a wide pool of resources to draw on and, most of all, a deep passion for world ceramics which inspires all my work. I work in earthenware and stoneware at my Stratford-upon-Avon workshop. I also undertake commissions.
My work falls into two (sometimes overlapping) categories. My hand-thrown tableware is designed for a contemporary setting. My one-off studio pieces represent a constant search for a quiet harmony between well-balanced form and ever-elusive beautiful glazes, which I develop myself. I am inspired by the ceramics of the past, while also aiming to bring to my work something of the optimism and beauty of the natural world.
The business of making and using pots is as fundamental to humanity as the preparation of food. The transformation of malleable clay to indestructible vessel through the alchemy of fire is the essence of a handmade pot.