After graduating with a Fine Art Degree in Sculpture from North Staffordshire Polytechnic in 1982, Karen worked in Community Arts for a few years before moving to Japan, where she studied Shodo (Japanese calligraphy) and taught English. Living in Japan was an experience that continues to inspire her work.

“I took up working with clay on a full time basis back in 2009 and I have never looked back! Clay, especially red earthenware, is my passion. I make a modern version of traditional slipware.  Each piece is individually made, usually hand built. Creamy slip (liquid clay) is brushed or poured on and the drawing/illustration is drawn directly on the slip revealing the red clay body, a technique called sgraffito. I use a limited palette of mainly raw iron, cobalt and copper oxide to add colour and depth to the work. I love the idea of the pieces being used daily to eat and drink from.”

Karen’s works for our Solstice Summer Show draw inspiration from nature and the stunning wild landscape and coast of Pembrokeshire which has been her home for the past 23 years.