Kiln Diary #12

WINTER COLLECTION

GOING LIVE

27th November 2021 UK time 2pm

Thanks to everyone who has enquired about my next online collection. I am working on the last group of pieces this week getting ready to fire the kiln. These new folded rim vessels will be the first of this form available in this year’s Winter collection alongside more familiar Teabowls, Tall Vessels and Pods.

My work continues to evolve as I develop the rich, carved and drawn surfaces. Sometimes firing pieces upside down or on their side to produce different colour combinations and textural marks. The work will be available online from 2pm on Saturday 27th November. We will send out email and instagram reminders nearer the time.

IRISH CRAFT HEROES

I am always very pleased to have the opportunity to show my work back in Ireland and recently there have been two important exhibitions. The Design and Craft Council of Ireland was formed in 1971, the year that my making career began as young potter working at the Kilkenny Design Workshops. I was very proud to be selected as one of the Irish craft heroes chosen to be part of the touring exhibition to mark the 50th anniversary.

50 makers x 50 Years; opened in Kilkenny and is currently at Dublin Castle until 30th November. I was honoured to attend the opening reception with Irish President Michael D Higgins to celebrate the many respected makers whose work has contributed to the evolution of contemporary craft and design practice in Ireland. In his speech the President reflected on a new appreciation for the value of materials and individual contributions to the development of culture. The DCCoI has developed an innovative and highly visual, outdoor panel trail with the focus on strong images of iconic pieces and sharing makers stories

PORTFOLIO CRITICAL SELECTION

Now in its 15th year, the Design & Crafts Council of Ireland’s Portfolio programme is a select group of Ireland’s most talented designers and craftspeople. Inclusion is recognition of practitioners creating work with outstanding qualities considered by museums, renowned galleries, and discerning collectors.

The exhibition, Conjuring Forms, launched at Doneraile Court in Co Cork with my tall porcelain vessel being displayed in the elegant dining room of this beautiful house. This piece has now been acquired by the Department of Foreign Affairs for the collection in the Irish Embassy, Paris.

My work can be comfortable in a grand setting, big houses, museums and galleries. It can also engage with us in the everyday to lift our spirits from a place on the kitchen table or a mantlepiece. Most of all I hope it can bring joy.

We have very much enjoyed meeting visitors to the porcelain studio at Trinity House and we continue to be open by appointment. If you are down our way, the kettle will be on !

To see more follow @dohertyporcelain