Paul Dalrymple ceramics
Ceramics
I design and make wheel thrown ceramics both sculptural and functional. The first and most important element is the material, its colour, textural qualities and often with the addition of local clays, sand and shingle from the Co. Antrim coast. I like to combine different clays often of contrasting qualities, sometimes altered with additions or mixed agate during the throwing
Throughout my education and working life I have always been fascinated by creating, making and designing. I have pursued these interests in two mediums which are Clay and Food, both with equal passion.
Firstly I found a love for clay through my education, I was intrigued by the endless possibilities of building techniques and material. I found that the nature of working with clay made it possible to create without any limitations. In making, with controlled techniques, I learnt I could create amazing form’s, combined with the fascinating firing and glazing techniques, I discovered I could make unique work that can be both practical and visually stunning.
I am influenced by the qualities and textures of the material’s we are surrounded by, in nature wood, pebbles or rocks and the beauty of some of our industrial materials such as concrete or worn brickwork. Exploring them in their weathered state, to show a sense of growth, embellished evidence of a story of what conditions they’ve survived.
Ceramics is fascinating and endless, raw material, dug or mined from the ground and fused with fire. Equally primitive and technical, I love to create and constantly challenge myself and clay will never run out of possibilities for me.
Understanding the materials properties, learning to control its wild tendencies during making and nurturing it throughout its journey from the ground to finished ceramic.
In the making Clay is so instant, it allows for creativity to flow, physically challenging but responsive, a material that has endless possibilities.
The combination of Clay, glaze and fire is fascinating, I like to test and achieve a certain degree of understanding of the outcome, but love that in the materials and techniques that I use, every piece will be unique and I will never grow tired of the anticipation of open the kiln door.
Address
16 casements brae
Larne
bt40 3dd
Opening Hours
My studio is open by prior appointment
Great Northern contemporary craft fair, online 17-18 July and live at Victoria baths 8-10 october
Belfast Potter’s market, Writer’s square, 7 – 8 August
Made in Ireland, National design centre, Kilkenny, 12 November