2025 – Taking part in Potfest Scotland – Scone Palace

I work part-time as both a ceramicist and a skin cancer dermatological surgeon. I have always loved working with my hands. I find that the 2 occupations complement each other perfectly. The down time making ceramics gives me the energy for both my family life and my working life.

Clays and Firing
I have experimented widely with different clays and firing techniques. I have decided to work mainly in porcelain now with electric firing to cone 6 (1200deg C). This is the most environmental option I have found for producing quality ceramics that are functional for use in the home.
Porcelain is technically uncompromising to throw with, demanding its own discipline, and it has a particular hard and smooth quality when fired. I throw the majority of my work on the wheel, turning and trimming and altering as required to acheive the final form. Throwing is a rhythmic and meditative process requiring complete concentration and relaxation for the best result.

Decorating and Glazing
I am keen to use simple and easily available oxides (copper and iron) and simple glaze recipes using a minimally toxic and environmental approach to making. However, I love the effect of reduction firing on colours and so I have recently developed a true celadon aqua green iron based glaze, employing small amounts of silicon carbide for in glaze reduction of iron and continue to work on developing non toxic glazes using simple oxides as colourants to achieve effects more commonly seen in reduction firings.
I have experimented widely with decorative techniques from layering glazes for interesting chemical reactions to sgraffito (scratching through), merikomi (in-lay) and Chinese brushwork. Employing these techniques I use quick but accurate brushstrokes or mark making to articulate the feeling of energy and force involved in making.

Folk Art Inspirations
For designs ideas, I am increasingly interested in the folk art of North America, Scandinavia and Scotland, countries I’m connected to personally, and its symbolism exploring our relationships with the natural world.

The Bear
In celtic mythology she is a symbol of motherhood, as fierce protectors of their young. In Native North American culture the bear represents authority, good medicine, courage, and strength. The bear is said to be a healer and protector. In Norse mythology during visits to the human world, Odin as well as Thor often take on the appearance of bear as disguise. Therefore, bears tend to be looked upon as the forefathers of man in ancient times. Bears symbolize wisdom, strength and healing that bring balance to seen and the unseen world.

The Fish
In all three northern cultures the symbolism of fish is strongly connected to the water. Water is a powerful symbol of the depths of the unconscious. Ultimately, water is strongly connected to the idea of life and birth. As a water animal, the fish is linked to steadfast movement and independence. It represents the unconscious of higher-self, feelings, and motives. It is also a metaphor for deeper awareness and the intelligence and thought process. It symbolises birth and rebirth, fertility and the sacred feminine.

I hope you enjoy my work.

fionareidceramics.uk