mairistone

My work is all about trying to express my love and reverence for the beauty of this earth. If my pieces evoke any of that feeling in the viewer then my work is complete.

The oceans and all they hold are quite obviously a major inspiration but it is the whole of nature's organic forms, textures and colours that influence me. I also have a great interest in the macro / microscopic world, seeing that which is hidden to the naked eye. Much of my work is abstract, a mix of all these forms and textures. My pieces therefore refer to their source but are rarely a true resemblance.

I use Porcelain Paperclay from the Scarva pottery in Northern Ireland. It is the perfect medium for my work. I discovered a way to fuse glass into the pieces and I find it far more pleasing and colourful than glazes. As the glass cools it 'crackles' giving a beautiful crystalline effect. If I'm not using colour, then it is the amazing translucency of the porcelain that is being shown.

~ A little background ~
My main career when I was younger, was graphic art mixed with as much travelling as possible. In the early 80’s I attended a night course and then worked for a short time in a small pottery in the UK. I didn't actually learn any technical stuff but I found my medium and a desire to use it. Only after coming to West Cork in 2000 was I able to set up a small workshop and realise that desire. I am unashamedly self taught but there have been many people who have given me their advice and wisdom over the years. My late father bought me my first hobby kiln and supported me every step of the way, as have the rest of my family. I also received a start up grant from the West Cork Enterprise Board and have been funded by the West Cork Development Partnership. I am here today because of my dream and their support and am immensely grateful for all of them. :D

I hope you enjoy browsing my shop. If you would like to see what I'm up to currently and for lots of inspirational images, pop over to my facebook page - www.facebook.com/mairi.stone.ceramics or www.instagram.com/mairi_stone/

Thanks for coming by :)