From Sentimental Slipware to a Life Molded by Clay: The Story of Victoria Claire Dawes

A Journey Through Upheaval and Artistic Growth

Victoria Claire Dawes, a ceramic artist with a nomadic spirit, embodies the profound connection between life experiences and artistic expression. Her journey, marked by geographical shifts and personal discoveries, is beautifully reflected in her signature style – sentimental slipware that speaks of nostalgia, family, and the comforting familiarity of home.

Early Influences and the Allure of Clay

Born in Bristol, England, Dawes’s childhood was a tapestry woven across continents, from Newcastle to New Zealand. This early exposure to diverse cultures and landscapes instilled in her a deep appreciation for the concept of home, a theme that would later permeate her artistic practice.

While studying outdoor education in Wisconsin, USA, a serendipitous encounter with ceramics ignited a passion within her. Initially drawn to the tactile nature of clay, Dawes found herself captivated by the transformative power of the medium. She gravitated towards slipware, a technique that involves decorating pottery with liquid clay, allowing for spontaneous and expressive mark-making.

Finding Her Voice: The Kathleen Collection

Inspired by the legendary potter Warren Mackenzie and local artists like Lisa Buck and Ursula Hargens, Dawes began to experiment with form and color. Her early work, primarily in black, brown, and white slips, reflected a desire for elegant simplicity. However, a pivotal workshop with artist Liz Quakenbush encouraged her to embrace a bolder palette, infusing her pieces with a newfound vibrancy.

Dawes’s grandmother, Kathleen, became a significant muse, inspiring a collection of tableware adorned with delicate lacework patterns and architectural motifs reminiscent of churches. These pieces, imbued with a sense of nostalgia and familial connection, marked a turning point in her artistic journey, solidifying her signature style – sentimental slipware that evokes a sense of cherished memories.

Transatlantic Transitions and the Power of Community

After graduating, Dawes’s talent was recognized with the Anonymous Potter Studio Fellowship at the Northern Clay Centre in Minneapolis. This invaluable experience provided her with the space and resources to further refine her craft and explore new creative avenues.

Yearning for a return to her British roots, Dawes secured a place on the Starter Studio Programme at Yorkshire Artspace in the UK. The Craft Council’s Hothouse scheme and a successful Kickstarter campaign further fueled her artistic endeavors, helping her establish a studio in Sheffield and navigate the UK craft market.

More Than Just Tableware: Vessels of Memory and Emotion

Dawes’s work transcends the realm of mere functionality; her pieces are vessels imbued with personal narratives and emotional resonance. Drawing inspiration from her mother’s vibrant use of textiles and patterns, she incorporates bold splashes of color and fluid lines, transforming everyday objects into tangible memories.

Her creative process is intuitive and deeply personal. Each brushstroke, each swirl of slip, reflects a specific memory or emotion, inviting the user to connect with the piece on a deeper level. A yellow dot might represent a beloved floral print, while a sweeping curve echoes the graceful drape of curtains from her childhood home.

Navigating New Beginnings: Embracing Change and Growth

In 2019, a confluence of factors, including family matters and the uncertainties of Brexit, led Dawes to make the difficult decision to return to New Zealand. Leaving behind a thriving artistic community was challenging, but she embraced the opportunity for a fresh start, setting up a new studio in Cromwell on the South Island.

The COVID-19 pandemic, while disruptive, presented Dawes with an unexpected opportunity for personal and professional growth. She trained as a Pilates instructor, recognizing the importance of physical well-being for artists who often engage in repetitive motions. This new skill not only addressed her own needs but also opened up avenues for connecting with her local community.

A Future Molded by Clay: Continuing the Legacy

Today, Victoria Claire Dawes continues to create her distinctive sentimental slipware, her work a testament to the power of resilience, adaptability, and the enduring strength of family ties. Her journey, marked by both challenges and triumphs, underscores the profound influence of life experiences on artistic expression.

For those interested in exploring the world of ceramics:

• The American Ceramic Society: A leading organization dedicated to advancing the study, creation, and appreciation of ceramics.
• The Craft Council: A UK-based charity championing excellence in craft, including ceramics, through exhibitions, events, and support for artists.
• The Northern Clay Center: A vibrant hub for ceramic arts in Minneapolis, offering exhibitions, workshops, and artist residencies.

Victoria Claire Dawes’s story is a testament to the enduring power of art to connect us to our past, ground us in the present, and inspire us to embrace the unknown future. Her work serves as a reminder that even in the face of constant change, the things that truly matter – family, home, and the pursuit of creative passion – remain constant sources of strength and inspiration.