Tamasin Pepper
Artist Statement
I explore the ancient quality of landscape from the microscopic to the aerial, grand scale: forms and patterns repeating. There is a focus on horizon lines and the patchwork of farmland or geological rock strata. Forms are elemental, solid, earthy and understated to compliment the vibrant surfaces.
The stark Australian sunlight, whitening rippled water or highlighting eucalypt bark appears in the use of runny porcelain, polished white against the dry, bright engobe. This technique of runny porcelain combined with multiple joined clay slabs adds depth to the surface.
The role of negative space has become increasingly important in the process of creating functional ware. I really enjoy the sight of rows or groups of pots; an undulating rhythm with the interplay of the negative space between the forms.
Thrown pieces for everyday use, has increasingly been part of my practice. Each piece is unique with its glaze-on-glaze decoration and its many variables, undergoing the alchemy of high firing to 1265C. Some pieces are thrown and then altered while wet so they retain a sense of the soft origins of the material and an asymmetry of form.
