Stephen Murfitt

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Her quiet materials - Claire Benn Art textiles

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Stephen is a ceramic artist whose work is driven by an obsession with clay and its versatility. He makes ceramic forms and vessels which are hand built and Raku-fired.

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He became addicted to Raku because of the direct involvement with each stage of the process. The pots absorb and reflect the intense drama of the firing.

Influences are diverse and come from a fusion of visual elements seen in the natural and built environments.

The effects of weathering, erosion and decay provide a constant source of reference.

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Small groups of related forms are hand built simultaneously. The slow and contemplative pace of coiling allows for considered developments and refinements to be made. Each stage of construction enables intuitive and selective marks and textures to occur.

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Glazing and firing methods are adapted to enhance the form and surface of each piece.

This combination of the making, glazing and firing methods result in one-off pieces which are completely unique.