Andrew Dowden Ceramic Artist Open Workshop Weekend at 29 Ventnor Road, Apse Heath, Isle of Wight PO36 0JT

Fri, 15 July, 10am to 8 pm
Sat, 16 July, 10 am to 5 pm
Sun, 17 July, 10 am to 8 pm

Open to the general public only once a year, Andrew Dowden's Open Workshop Weekend gives visitors an opportunity to view the workshop and to see work-in-progress and finished pieces.

Andrew Dowden has lived in the Isle of Wight for 19 years. Carpentry was his trade for 20 years and he has always had an interest in ceramics, historical and contemporary, including the making process. It was during his research of the first book on Isle of Wight pottery - watching a bowl being thrown on a wheel - that Andrew was inspired to take up ceramics, now an absorbing pastime.

Each piece is individually designed, comprising complex surface patterns juxtoposed with contrasting glazes and slips. The colour palette is limited allowing the clay to become an itegral part of the surface design. Hand-carving and surface textures are Andrew's main interest, with form being more important than function. Ideas for hand-carving are inspired by the surrounding sea and countryside in the Isle of Wight, tracks made by man, machine and nature, leaving their imprint on the earth. Architecture, engineering, and machinery add further interest to designs.

'I always enjoy Open Workshop Weekend', says Andrew, 'as it gives me the opportunity to meet people and to discuss my work. Visitors are often surprised to learn about the complexities of making. A pot being thrown on a wheel is indeed fascinating to watch, but it is only one part of the many processes to be carried out before the piece is finished - and there are so many other ways to make a form besides wheel-throwing. Open Workshop informs the public and it's good fun too!'

For further details:

Tel: 01983 867505
Email: [email protected]
Web: www.andrewdowden.co.uk

Details correct at time of posting but may be subject to change.

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