Spotlight on Open Studios 2011

Ceramicist Sophie Waite

A FORMER pupil of The Downs School, Compton, Sophie Waite has returned to her Newbury roots with a first class honours degree in 3D Art, having graduated from the University of Plymouth, where she discovered her love of ceramics.

Inspired by traditional shapes and natural forms, she creates decorative smoke-fired ceramics in her studio and garden, using the methods of press-moulding and liquid slip casting to produce both free standing and framed pieces.

After glazing or painting with very fine terracotta, the pieces are smoke firedin an incinerator in her garden with sawdust and other combustible materials. This produces dark organic smoky patterns on the surface of the ceramic to enhance the natural earthy appearance she strives to achieve.

Waite is constantly experimenting with new shapes, finishes and alternative methods of adapting recognizable forms. Her recent work involves ripping the clay and then smoke firing which can produce unexpected but unique results.

She is also currently working on framed ceramic pieces, including exquisite quirky teacups.

“By framing 3D forms their traditional function is questioned”, says Sophie. “The aesthetics of everyday objects are often overlooked as the preconception of their function outweighs the aesthetics of their design”.

Sophie is taking part in the West Berkshire and North Hampshire Open Studios for the second time this year, collaborating with fellow artists Helen Mortimer, Joanna Burton, Nuala Whales and Jane Whitaker, at Lower Way Farm, Thatcham.

The studio opens to the public on Saturday, May 7. Further details of opening times of this studio and others can be found in the 2011 directory of artists or the website www.open-studios.org.uk

p Sophie Waite is currently displaying her work at the Old Stable Gallery, Wallingford.