Michelle Erickson is based in the historic area of Virginia, USA. From here she works both as a ceramic artist and businesswoman, exploring the production methods of the 18th century potters of Staffordshire. Virginia has fine collections of early slipwares that were shipped to the States directly from Stoke. Through careful experiments Erickson has rediscovered the making methods and produces replica wares for collectors and museums. In this feature Robert Hunter outlines her career. Images demonstrate a variety of her techniques including decorating with sgraffito, jewelling and marbling.

Tentative StepsFollowing a stint as a novice at Winchcombe Pottery, Tim Rees went on to Loughborough Universtity where he developed his passion for wheel-thrown domestic ware. Here he reflects on his college experiments with woodfiring and describes his feelings as he embarked on his career.

Popularity: 1%