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Steven Edwards is a Ceramic Artist based in the UK. His work investigates the language of making through the materiality and physicality of clay. Fascinated by process-led making, he uses traditional techniques that provoke unanticipated outcomes, using clay as a medium that sustains the narrative of the making process. The resulting forms embody his interaction and manipulation of the clay using bespoke tools to explore the intrinsic properties of the material.
His creative practice purposely places clay under stress to reveal the natural tension and movement in its surface and form. Throughout the making process he pushes, pulls, compresses and slices the material to provoke a reaction. The final forms are a combination of these making scenarios, translating a theme of duality in their appearance – the contrast of visual distortion and precision, the stillness and movement in form and the surface deception between synthetic and natural.
"The dense, compact objects paradoxically give an impression of lightness. The interplay of entanglements appears to be the result of skilful weaving work, providing hollows, creases and folds where the light gets in while the shadows underline the reliefs. Steven Edwards does not merely build a form whose surface is subsequently decorated. The body and skin are one, giving rise to the pieces’ energy, dynamics and organic character."
Text by Guillaume Morel for 'Plaisirs gourmands', solo show at Galerie de l’Ancienne Poste, Toucy, France.
He has exhibited his work at premiere contemporary design and craft shows including British Ceramics Biennial, London Craft Week ,London Design Festival, Paris Design Week, Homo Faber in Venice and Collect 2024. He has also made large-scale outdoor installations, including From Humble Beginnings as part of the Surrey Unearthed Arts Council funded project at the Watts Gallery. He has gained international recognition and his works are now present in prestigious private collections, including the famous Devonshire collection in the UK.
Awards, Publications and Articles