
Black Stoneware by Clare Stephens
Balance 3
Clare Stephens
Vessels created by the artist have dialogue with each other, their surroundings and those who interact both visually and by touch. The intangible essence, presence or ‘being-with’, enables interaction with others, our world, underpinning values within her making. This precious essence facilitates acceptance, empathy, dialogue, potential for our well-being, that of others, and can facilitate collaboration. These values and interaction are a balance, in constant flux and realignment.
Clays are similar yet individual and unique. During making, materiality of clay, inherited tacit knowledge, incorporating wood firing, local brick, wild clays and ash reinforce these connections. Combining technical, material knowledge and form is part of timeless interaction and understanding of varied societies and cultures. Interacting with clay, mind, hands and body act in unison, responding to each other parallelling aspects within Clare’s previous midwifery career, providing wholeness to work.
Black Stoneware
14x34x34cm