Dawn Hurst – Ceramicist
Dawn graduated from the University of Central Lancashire with a first class honours degree in 3D Design. Her main focus during this time was ceramics where her interest in the sagger and sawdust firing techniques first developed. She was, and continues to be intrigued by the limitless number of opportunities to explore and develop new and exciting methods.
Curves
Curves
Over the years Dawn has developed techniques that create strikingly beautiful colours, textures and intense patterns.
Wall Panels
Wall Panels
The main inspirations for her work are the shapes, patterns, texture and colours that are seen to occur in nature all around us, such as on rock and tree surfaces. The principal aim of her work is to recreate the impression of the natural, earthy beauty of those surfaces.
Small Bowls
Collection of balls
All of Dawn’s work is bisque fired and then smoke/saggar fired. She has chosen not to rely on the usual ceramic slips, glazes and chemical treatments. Instead she incorporates natural and recycled materials in to the firing process, resulting in unique and unusual designs. She also creates her own types of ‘glazes’ in which her pieces are dipped and soaked. These are produced by combining various household and recycled materials and liquids.
Coasters
Clay is one of the most natural materials with which to work, and Dawn is fascinated by the results that can be achieved using the processes she has developed. She is inspired by the seemingly infinite variations of pattern and colour, which result from each firing.
Small Tear Vessels
For the firing process Dawn uses different amounts and mixtures of combustible materials. These can be packed either loosely or densely, meaning that the results always vary. The final result is affected by weather conditions, the dryness of the ceramics and surrounding materials together with the position in which the ceramic pieces are placed.
Collection of various vessels
Tall Tube Vessels
Heart Gallery is proud to be showcasing Dawn’s work as part of our REcycled REscued REstored exhibition from 8th September until 20th October. The simplistic ceramic forms she has chosen serve as a canvas for the naturally created images they carry.
Tall Vessels
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