Alison West Ceramics - Saggarfired Ceramic Art
Unglazed Ceramic Art and Tableware
Vessels decorated by firing with natural materials from Dartmoor
Saggarfired Ceramic Art and local clay slipware
Local Clay Slipware
Pottery Courses/Workshops
Pottery Courses/Workshops
I start by gathering wild clay from Dartmoor and soaking it in water for a week, allowing the clay particles to soften and disperse. This step helps me to strain the clay through a fine mesh, which effectively filters out impurities like roots and leaves. After sieving, I further refine the clay into a smooth, fine slip known as terrasigi
I start by gathering wild clay from Dartmoor and soaking it in water for a week, allowing the clay particles to soften and disperse. This step helps me to strain the clay through a fine mesh, which effectively filters out impurities like roots and leaves. After sieving, I further refine the clay into a smooth, fine slip known as terrasigillata. This slip is sprayed in layers onto the piece, resulting in a polished, glossy finish that enhances the inherent beauty of Dartmoor's clay. To complete the process, I apply a clear or opaque white glaze, allowing the rich hues of the terra sigillata to emerge.
JANUARY 2023 PERIOD LIVING MAGAZINE CRAFT FEATURE - photos/editorial Suzy Bennett (@suzybennett.photography)
