Sophie MacCarthy and Richard Phethean’s established careers have embraced bold decoration and a joyous approach to colour through the use of slip on their earthenware pieces. In this exhibition Sophie’s classic forms and intricate stencil decoration sit well together with Richard’s meticulous abstract designs on curious constructed shapes.
Their passion for design and colour, alongside the similarities in their making process creates a complimentary combination of works that are a delight to see in this exhibition.
Sophie’s pieces, using a mixture of stencils and brushstrokes on traditional forms, appear to create movement and depth within each decoration. Floating leaves swim in front of your eyes upon her carefully crafted plates while birds rest on branches within wheel thrown mugs.
Richard’s forms stand proudly – each one so full of character that his abstract decoration could be likened to clothes draped across each piece.
Together Sophie MacCarthy and Richard Phethean celebrate a bold and joyous approach to colour through the use of slip on their earthenware pieces.
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“Through my education, practice and persistence I have developed a unique method with an aim of utilising the versatility of clay to its potential.”
“My making process is a daily repetition in a calm and quiet place. My work is a reflection of thoughts and sensibility in these moments of making.”
“I am wary of having a formula, thinking I have cracked the code… The feeling of satisfaction is surely my enemy. I need to stay focused on trying to create work that has real freedom in it, freedom from materials, method or mentality.”
“Central to my work is the concept of the vessel: creating associations with sharing, ritual and celebration, reminders of our humanity, our history and connection with nature.”
