After graduating with a Fine Art Degree in Sculpture from North Staffordshire Polytechnic in 1982, Karen worked in Community Arts for a few years before moving to Japan where she studied Shodo (Japanese calligraphy) and taught English for three years. Living in Japan was an experience that continues to inspire her work.
Karen started working with clay on a full time basis back in 2009 and has never looked back! Clay, especially red earthenware is her passion.
"I make a modern version of traditional slipware. Each piece is individually made, usually hand built with slabs or formed by pinching the soft clay. Creamy slip (liquid clay) is hand brushed or poured on and the drawing is made directly on the slip revealing the red clay body, a technique called sgraffito.
I use a limited palette of mainly raw iron, cobalt and copper oxide to add colour and depth to the work.
I love the idea of the pieces being used daily to eat and drink from."
Her inspiration comes directly from nature and the stunning wild landscape and coast of Pembrokeshire where Karen has made her home for over the past 20 years.