Fenella Elms
Biography
I first discovered working with clay when I was taught to throw with a school teacher who enthusiastically took the class out to see a Lucy Rie exhibition at the Victoria and Albert museum in 1981. I sought out workshops and classes over the years until I was given a wheel in 2004 and began the more intensive teaching that college offered.
Aspects of my past career in mental health continue to influence my work with clay: the subconscious approach, a sense of rhythm, attention to detail and difference. I don’t seek to put my experiences into the clay, but marvel at how they emerge.
Prizes and Publications
2013
Sculpting and Handbuilding by Claire Loder (The New Ceramics series) Pub. A&C Black (cover and various pages)
House and Garden magazine (Feb.) in feature article "Turning the tables" recommended by interior designer, Karen Howes.
Period Living magazine (Feb.) images in feature article "A New Lease of Life" about interior designer, Henny Tate.
2012
The Workshop Guide to Ceramics by Hooson & Quinn, pub. Thames & Hudson (cover and various pages)
The Ceramics Book (Third edition) Ed. Bonnie Kemske
Architectural Digest (German edition) 131 July/Aug. Rapture of the Deep
2011
Winner: Ceramic Review Award for Exceptional, Innovative and Challenging work at Ceramic Art London, Royal College of Art.
"Swirling Movements and Illusions of Growth" by Amanda Fielding, feature article in Ceramic Review magazine, 250th special edition.
2010
Homes and Gardens (March) "One to Watch" feature.
2009
Shortlisted for Zelli Porcelain Award.
Shortlisted for Crafts Council Craft Development Award.
2008
Selected for “Cream of the Crop” images of graduation students’ work. Ceramic Review Magazine, edition 234.
2007
Winner: DecOriginal Ceramics Design Prize, leading to design samples being factory made in China.
Training
2008 HNC Ceramics (Swindon College)
2005 Art Foundation (Swindon College)
Aricles and Interviews
The Lucky Compiler
Dhruba Rai Chaudhuri, based in India, has started this website to "explore the soul of creation", approaching artists from around the world to interview. click here
Ceramic Review Article
"Swirling Movements and Illusions of Growth" by Amanda Fielding, July 2011 Click here
Interview with View Art
March 2011 Click here