Flowerfield Artist Profile: Adam Frew

Potter Adam Frew has been resident artist at Flowerfield since beginning Craft NI's 'Making It' scheme in autumn 2006.  During his time here his work has gone from strength to strength.  From developing a strong range of functional ware that has changed dramatically since the early days:

 2007

To winning the Award for Excellence at the British Craft Trade Fair in 2011.

"Being at Flowerfield has been vital for me.  The launching of Making It 06 was energetic as soon as I had clay to throw I was making pots!!  Both Flowerfield and Craft N I continued supporting and promoting  me enthusiastically for the duration of the two years. Magazine articles and media footage has allowed showcasing of the work not only to the local community but also to the wider international audience as well.

Malcolm Murchinson, my mentor and the director of Flowerfield supported me with every venture from the building of experimental kilns on site to offering down to earth advice and support when it was needed.

The programme ended with my first solo show in the amazing gallery space.  I was a perfect way to round off the two years and launch myself as an independent business."

Flowerfield Solo Exhibition, 2008

Film: Adam making a large pot in two parts

To see Adam's most up to date work have a look at his website: www.adamfrew.com

Adam regularly teaches classes at the centre.  For more info please check: www.flowerfield.org

Catherine Keenan: new artist in residence

Glass Artist Catherine Keenan has begun a 2 year residency at Flowerfield through Craft NI's 'Making It' scheme.  Other artists to join Flowerfield through the scheme have been Adam Frew, pottery and Pia Raeymaekers, glass.

Catherine Keenan graduated from the National College of Art and Design, Dublin with a BDes in Craft Design:Glass in 2006. She then went on to study at the International Glass Centre, West Midlands, specialising in glass blowing and cold decoration and carving.

“I seek to generate positive emotions with my work, to give solace and uplift. Colour and pattern are so attractive to me as they have a direct way of creating an instinctual response.

Glass blowing is such an immediate process, it requires great dexterity and swift, confident gestures to create sublime forms. For me, a major draw to the medium is the great breadth of different techniques, the high level of skill needed to refine these techniques and the seemingly endless possibility for new creations.”

Her blown glass work ranges from sculptural objects and functional vessels to installations comprised of blown glass components.  She also makes a range of lampwork jewellery, and will be regularly taking bead making classes at the centre.

Film of Catherine blowing glass

www.catherinekeenanglass.com