Materials Matter

  

Natural materials - wild clay, wood, stone contain clues about a place and it's past - they can connect us to people, events, history.  Using local clay and wood within my work connects me to my surroundings, brings added meaning to my work, continuing the stories that the materials hold.

  

I am currently artist in residence at Pitfield Barn Sussex. 

  

Pitfield Barn is a 6 ache plot of fields, ponds and a barn. A hundred years ago the plot was a timber yard with a pit where wood was cut for local houses and businesses.  Now the pit is filled in, and the land is being used to grow British flowers, highlighting and promoting the depth of floral variety the seasons can bring. There is also a field dedicated to growing seasonal vegetables sold on site. Everything is grown using organic principles and is hand picked and freshly harvested to order - there is a real connection, understanding and respect for all aspects of nature.

This connection to, and respect for the land drew me to Pitfield.  I am researching the history of the land, but also observing how it is being used now, noting the changes through the seasons. .

  

Over a year I am observing the plants and trees around the fields and gardens, noticing how they and their rhythms change. I am collecting various elements, usually fallen or discarded and am processing clay dug on site.  From these observations and collections I am playing with ideas, forms and materials. These 3D sketches and tests are displayed within the barn for the public to see and engage with, often sparking interesting conversations.

   

The residency will finish with community workshops and an exhibition during Sussex Craft week 2026.