Ross Emerson
With the exception of a small amount of thrown pots most of my work
consists of slab-built constructions, embellished with a variety of
differing techniques. I work in red earthenware clay onto which I apply
a white slip as a background to any amount of coloured slips. The painting
process can take as long as the actual construction, depending on what
I'm trying to achieve. I am interested in a wide variety of different
styles and themes. Each piece requires its own style of decorative treatment,
from minimal and free brushwork, through to detailed painting or a soft
sprayed effect.
For many years I have been known for my clocks, which are the largest
part of my production. Stylistically, I draw on strong classical forms
and structure within art, architecture and antiques. There is certainly
a strong 'Surrealist ' element running through much of my work. Whilst
this is usually intended, it can also result from the collision between
a variety of other styles, for example 'distorted perspective ' and
' Trompe L'oeil '. Other sources of inspiration would include Escher,
Hieronymus Bosch, Chagall and the ramblings of Edward Lear and even
Dr Suess. I'm not afraid to mix my metaphors; it's all about fun. Don't
look for any thing deep and meaningful, it isn’t there. The designs,
whilst originating from traditional sources and styles, soon become
a cocktail of playful stylistic non-sequesters or unconnected themes.
It is always a danger, when throwing a multitude of differing elements
into the melting pot, that the results are confused or disconnected.
To avoid this, I aim to get all the other design elements; form, structure,
colour and the quality of finish; working together.
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