Hilary LaForce makes one off ceramic pieces inspired by both natural objects and ancient classical vessels, with tactile, textural surfaces and vibrant colours.
The influence of the elements: wind, water,earth and fire; are both implied and literally employed in the execution of the pots themselves.
The majority of the pieces are coil built while others are made with slip and press moulds. Having worked for many years in terra-cotta with matt alkaline glazes, white stoneware or porcelain are now the preferred clays. The higher firing temperatures required create much more integration of clay and glaze, allowing the opportunity to experiment with the chemical interactions of many raw materials and oxides which remain inert at earthenware temperatures.
Glazes are applied in multiple layers until the desired or sometimes the unexpected effect is achieved. Currently the work is following two themes: the azure blues and turquoises;and the pale oyster glazes;both have eroded and volcanic surfaces in varying combinations.
Background
Ipswich school of art. 1976-78
B.A. Hons. West Surrey College of Art and Design, Farham 1978-81
Selected Exhibitions
Exhibited at Chelsea Crafts Fair 1988/90/92
Demonstrated Art in Action, Waterperry 1990/91/93
Solo exhibition, The Orangery, Holland Park, London. 1992/94/96/98
Courcoux & Coucoux contemporary arts. 1993/95/96
Decorative arts today, Bonhams, London 1989
Beaux arts, Bath; solo 1989
Kyoto arts, Hong Kong arts centre 1989
The Barbican centre, london 1989 Hilary LaForce makes one off ceramic pieces inspired by both natural objects and ancient classical vessels, with tactile, textural surfaces and vibrant colours.
