Helen Pugh-Cook
2024 – Taking part in Potfest in the Pens – Penrith Autumn
Having always been surrounded by Asian artifacts brought back by my ancestors or my own travels, has always greatly influenced my work. The 20th Century studio potters who took the craft of pottery into a new Art form have inspired my experimental approach.
In my own making the form comes first with the colour and decoration being determined by the form. My intention is never to speculate what I’m going to create but allow the medium to dictate to me. I currently experiment in both Raku and electric firings, mainly using crackle glazes as I enjoy the unpredictability they give plus giving the items an aged effect.
I am fortunate enough to live in the beautiful Scottish Borders and the flowing lines of the agricultural tracks curving over the landscape and tree bark textures are a regular trait in my work.
If anyone feels a connection to one of my pieces, it gives me tremendous satisfaction. I wish my work to evoke a memory or sense of enjoyment, each piece should have it’s own individual story.