Carolyn (b. 1962) is a classically trained ceramic artist. She graduated from Camberwell College of Arts in 1998 with a degree in Ceramics.
Whilst raising her family, Carolyn taught ceramics within a mental health setting and became lead tutor for Studio 306 Collective, an organisation that supports mental health recovery through creativity.
In 2018, Carolyn returned to her own practice.
On first observation Carolyn’s work sits within the blue and white ceramic tradition with the surface pattern and recurring curves, necks and bellies all thrown in porcelain. Up close, however, the jewel like surface reveals the hidden visual diary that she collects.
My thrown porcelain ceramics are influenced by my interest in traditional Chinese and Japanese ware.
My decorative process starts with the collecting of personal stories – overheard phrases, lyrics, flowers, patterns and memory, are recorded in photography and drawings, leading to the creation of sheets of story. Printed onto paper and then torn or cut to disguise them (so that I retain ownership and privacy of some very personal memories,) each piece is placed individually onto the surface of the vessel. This creates a new “story” each time, full of references that may connect with the viewer, so sparking imagination and memory.
I create “families” of pots, pieces differing in shape and size, scale, curve and decoration, but united in spirit. Oriental-inspired ceramics with a contemporary twist.
Carolyn works from her studio in Wimbledon, South London.
In 2020, Carolyn was selected for the Hot House programme with the Crafts Council and she has gone on to show her work in galleries throughout the UK as well as selling work overseas.
Carolyn has completed several commissions, including a series of works for the Norwegian Cruises newest ships.
Additionally, she is a trustee of Studio 306 Collective and was a trustee of London Potters Charity from 2019-2024.
