Handmade Functional Pottery 

live one step closer to the earth

There is something special about things made of clay. Each piece is unique and imperfect, much like us.

I purposefully aim to make each work unique so the personality of the piece is evident even when it is part of a set.  I am constantly striving to perfect and experiment with the chemistry of my glazes but have become attached to watery blues and greens because they have a subtle complexity that keeps me finding beauty in the same piece no matter how many times I have seen it.  These colours also allow the form to take precedence so the piece must have strong line, shape and personality. All of my bowls, mugs and ramekins are thrown and trimmed on a wheel yet may have trace elements of hand altering to complement the design of the piece.

I enjoy using texture in my handbuilt works.  I design and carve plates that I then use to impress relief botanical texture into my slabs.  The delicate textures allow the glazes to break and pool which creates stunning colours.  I am inspired by the simplicity of Asian design and the complexity of Rococo embellishment.  Aiming to create a balance between these two contrasting sensibilities keeps me creating new and interesting works.

I love working on the wheel but hand build and alter many pieces as well. I have also started a line of ceramic jewelry which integrates the color and texture from my hand built wares.

I am blessed to have a home studio in Toronto, Ontario

Pam McFadyen
Lurearts Pottery