KATHLEEN RYALL

Artist’s Statement

In the eighteenth century, the European and English potters developed new materials and techniques which transformed the making of ceramics in the West. As an industrially trained designer, I now combine the technical versatility of those industrial processes with the individuality of the artist. By continuing to push the boundaries of this technology, I hope to produce work that is both innovative and distinctive. Essentially, at the heart of my work lies a purity of form, contrasting colours and subtle surface finishes. I strive to produce work which is uncompromising in both quality and elegance.

Methods and Materials

Well before I make any piece, I have to consider its production feasibility. Design in the form of drawing and accurate modeling is essential. I employ a variety of techniques in which to achieve the individuality of each piece, from painting designs of coloured slip, sculpting the tops of cast work, to casting layers of colour in sweeping lines and curves. All the work I make is vitrified, this achieves a distinctive porcelain translucency and impervious satin finish.

About Kathleen Ryall

I was born in Burslem, Staffordshire, England (the Potteries); where many of my family were potters and ceramic manufacturers. I gained a B.A in art and design at the University of Cardiff, Wales. After working as an exhibition and display designer and later as an interior designer in London, I moved back to Staffordshire, where I gained a M.A. in ceramics from Staffordshire University. I then worked for several years as an industrial designer and modeler, prior to moving to the U.S.A. in 1990. In 1997 I established my own studio in Oxford, North Carolina.