Saga Article
Gail Altschuler, North London
Credit: Saga
Vases: Singing & Listening, Cats, and Absent and Present
Spring flower: Tulips and white roses
Technique: Hand-building and joining
“Spring always makes me feel excited and inspired. Sometimes I try to keep up with the spring season, documenting the flowers as they appear. First as photographs, then as drawings in my sketchbooks and finally onto hand painted porcelain. I record snowdrops, crocuses, daffodils and tulips.
“I think snowdrops are my favourite as they have such strong, sharp white shapes, contrasting the dark green foliage beyond. A visual delight, heralding the spring and summer colours to come.”
Top tip: “Pottery and ceramics can be peaceful and relaxing, it is a mindful occupation that’s good for concentration and focus. Engaging with your hands and manipulating the clay is soothing and stimulating, all at once.
“Clay and porcelain are rewarding materials to work with, as they provide endless opportunities to develop your knowledge about the different types of clay, hand building techniques and throwing methods.
“There is also much to learn about the chemistry involved in glazing, temperatures and kiln firings. Praying to the kiln gods for each new kiln firing, is a comment often heard amongst potters and ceramicists.”
It’s not everyday an artist uses a Zoom meeting as inspiration for their art, and that is why Altschuler’s work is so relatable and quirky. She considers herself a storyteller in clay and porcelain, materials which she uses for sketching her day-to-day observations. Expect anything from cats to commentary on refugees. Altschuler’s art truly reflects life.
Altschuler’s vases are fun and joyful. Discover her quirky collection.
Joy Archer is an Editor for Home Passions at Exceptional.
Credit: Saga