Kathryne Koop:
“My work stems from the tradition of vessel making. The pieces are guided by their function but investigating sculptural form has been my focus. I work on a potter’s wheel and create objects that challenge and explore this process. The work has a strong organic quality since most of my inspiration derives from various aspects of nature. The shapes, colours, and patterns found in such things as leaves, exotic flowers, or the wings of birds and butterflies, are some of my sources. The energy, sensuality, and innate beauty found in these objects are characteristics I want reflected in my work.
“Each piece is designed for enjoyment, both through the tactile experience of use and mere contemplation. Working in porcelain, I manipulate the clay by altering it while very soft, and will often also cut, carve or incise it in such a way as to bring life to the object. Applying multiple intensely coloured glazes then produce a richness and depth to the surface, when fired. The work is completed by firing it to 2380°F in a reduction fired gas kiln.”