Artist Statement: Paul MacDonald

Paul has been working with clay as an amateur ceramic artist over the last 40 years.  He is largely self-taught and works predominantly with the potter’s wheel, using a variety of stoneware and near-porcelain clays.

His work shows influences from both European and Asian ceramic traditions.

Paul’s current work reflects opposite ends of the artistic spectrum.  On the one hand, he is exploring with some success certain glaze effects originating in 12-13^th century AD China.  These are typically refined and carefully controlled, and look their best on simple shapes designed to harmonise with the extraordinary glaze colours and textures which adorn them.

On the other hand, Paul is also interested in the accidental effects exhibited by claywork subjected to long, slow, and hot firings, in purpose-built, wood-burning kilns.  This approach became particularly esteemed in  Japan during the 15^th century AD, and the rough-hewn but powerful work which results is typically much prized by the traditions of Chado (The Way of Tea), and Ikebana (flower-arrangement).  Limited control of the outcome is a feature of such firings, and losses can be high.  However the best work produced in this manner has a natural strength and beauty which is not only unrepeatable, but also cannot be achieved by other ceramic techniques.

Paul regularly exhibits at the SA Studio Potters’ Gallery and is a Past President.  In 2004 Studio Potters celebrated their 50 year history with a Pottery Prize which Paul received for an oil spot pot.