Metal Spinning
To make vessels I turn mandrels on my lathe from maple or sycamore, to create the basic formand then cut circles from sheet copper and hand spin them over the wood on the lathe to create each bowl. I vary the finished edges so that I get a collection that is coherent in form, but every one varies a little bit to get some variety.
Photography
I have come to creative work from a photographic background, having been a commercial photographer as well as an art photographer. (www.karenmurrellphotography.co.uk)
Enamelling
My work is about exploring the wonderful range of colours and effects that happen when different enamels and copper react together.
Both enamelling and metal spinning are ancient but fascinating crafts. Enamelling is the art of fusing powdered glass onto metal by heating it to red hot in a kiln. It takes many layers and firings to achieve the kinds of effects you see here. Also, because the enamels react differently with each other - some melting at lower temperatures than others, there is much experimentation required to achieve the results I am looking for.
Dartmoor
I live and work in Lustleigh, a small village on the edge of Dartmoor - and a treasure trove of inspiration and loveliness...
