Steph Kates

I've been a painter for years, creating artwork exploring mythology, fairytales and fables. When I rediscovered my love of clay, I found I could combine my years of experience with image-making, illustration and pattern work with the practice of pottery.

I build my bowls and mugs by hand using a pinch or slab method. Then I incise designs on the surface using Sgraffito - before the clay dries, I cover the surface with underglaze, then carve designs into the clay. I bisque fire the clay, then touch up the design and apply glaze and fire again.

I bring my love of story to my ceramics work in my Story Bowls - Illustrated pottery inspired by mythology, fairy tales, and folk tales.