Judy McKenzie

This body of work explores the processes of Nerikomi and Kintsugi for the creation of unique and decorative ceramic objects. Nerikomi focuses full attention on the manipulated porcelain clay. Coloured with stains and oxides, and using hand-building techniques, patterns are created within the material. Kintsugi, embraces the imperfections that can occur during the processes involved in the construction and firing. My fascination with both techniques is not only that the clay and pattern combine to become the material of the object, but also, the true character and materiality of the clay can be exploited and brought to centre stage. When manipulated, the plasticity of the clay encourages movement, forming naturally soft lines, which appear to drift in and out of focus within the designs. Kintsugi becomes a precious scar, reminding us that strength and beauty exists in fragility.