RUTH FAIRHEAD - CERAMICIST

Ruth works from her garden studio in Cambridgeshire where her ceramics are imprinted with patterns of her own design, and are shaped into forms that are functional, sculptural or somewhere in between.

Ruth enjoys contrasts and uses a range of colourful glazes and underglazes to enhance patterns, textures and shapes. All of her work is handbuilt from slabs of clay. One surface on each piece is imprinted with pattern using a linocut, making her work individual and customisable.

Designing her own patterns and cutting her own lino is an important part of her ceramic practice. One of her favourite reference books for pattern is ‘The Grammar of Ornament’ by Victorian designer Owen Jones. A linocut that Ruth often uses was inspired by a visit to Ely Cathedral, another is a wren design which was inspired by wildlife photography.

Ruth uses glazes that enhance the ridges and troughs of the imprinted clay. Colour, texture and contrast are all very important to her and she often uses a matt underglaze against the high shine of glaze.

Inspiration for shapes comes from many places including architecture and product design. Ruth enjoys making interesting pieces that people want to pick up, hold and take home.