Linda Sydenham

I am a self-taught ceramicist and like the materials I use to speak for themselves, often leaving the outer, lower parts of the form unglazed, so the clay itself, can be seen and enjoyed. I find inspiration from the natural landscape, often dictated by the natural colours of the clay. As well as using bought materials, I enjoy experimenting to incorporate local materials such as the vast array of clays, sea-glass and other found materials in the body of my work, slips and glazes etc. This increases the risks of things going wrong, but growing up here, I have been aware for a long time of the abundance of raw materials available locally and having recently moved back, it is really exciting to have the chance now to explore these in more depth and feels like re-connecting with our beautiful island. 

Being very keen on nature and the environment I hope this will be increasingly reflected in my practice.

I use a traditional electric kiln, but have also been experimenting with smoke firings, saggar firing in the electric kiln and Raku.

My work is often functional, but I also enjoy making more creative pieces, aimed to be simply enjoyed in their own right.

Each piece is lovingly made by hand and no two pieces will be identical. I prefer each to have its own character and work together as a family rather than a replica of another.

Outside of the Open Studios opening times, I am very happy for you to visit my studio by appointment, where you can again see a  range of pieces currently available.

07568 539678 / linda.sydenham@icloud.com