Artist’s statement

My inspiration comes from the colours, textures and forms of the natural world, particularly from trees. Close observation never fails to reveal delights. The hills and valleys of the Lake District are especially important to me.

I find ceramics an ideal medium in which to capture and reflect on the qualities of nature. Clay has enormous expressive power to portray aspects of nature in objects with their own tactile and visual beauty, and is itself an inspiration.

Business aims

My aims in setting up Bitter Beck Pottery are to make and sell work that is interesting, accessible and affordable, and which encourages people to look afresh at the natural world.

Artist’s profile

I learnt pottery in the 1970s and 80s, set up a home studio and then let it lapse due to pressure of other work. I returned to ceramics in 1995 after seeing the work of Claudi Casanovas and have gradually let it take over.

My formal qualifications are in physics, education, business and environmental management, now complemented by a Professional Development Diploma for Designer Makers.

Read more from Cumbria Life magazine, January 2009.