Lucy Blackely
Ceramicist
Lucy is a recent graduate living and working in Cumbria, Lucy makes a wide variety of ceramics from animals to homewear.
For Lucy’s animals she uses a unique process of Raku, which involves placing the ceramic pieces in a specially designed raku kiln and subjecting them to intense heat, reaching temperatures as high as 1000°C. However, the true magic happens once the pieces are taken out of the kiln. They are placed into reduction buckets that contain various combustible materials, creating an environment of smoke and reduction. This reaction between heat, smoke, and reduction results in the beautiful crackles that are characteristic of raku ceramics.
Lucy has embraced this captivating technique to create her unique animal sculptures, with a particular focus on sheep, highland cows, and donkeys. These creations are deeply influenced by her upbringing in Cumbria, a place known for its stunning landscapes and abundant wildlife.
A selection of hand made juicers in pink green and yellow.
Dimensions: Total Height, 11cm jug height 8cm and jug diameter 8cm
A note from the Artist:
I wanted to combine my passion for baking with ceramics to create a baking set that not only easily fulfils its purpose, but also has a contemporary look.
These pieces start out as digital designs, allowing me to test many configurations before physically making them, I then 3d print them to create a perfect replicas to create my moulds. I use the process of slip casting, this process also lends itself to bakeware as it makes it easier to create functional pieces.
To get the best colours I tested varying amounts of stain, making small adjustments to each test until I found a selection that worked together well. I want these pieces to become a part of your home and fit into your baking routine, being easy and comfortable to use, making you want to use them and enjoy them.
This is a hand built ceramic Sheep, fired using the process called Raku.
Dimensions: 11cm x 12cm x 8cm
A note from the Artist:
Raku, originating in Japan, is a pottery firing technique that has captured the hearts of ceramic artists worldwide. Raku involves placing the ceramic pieces in a specially designed raku kiln and subjecting them to intense heat, reaching temperatures as high as 1000°C. However, the true magic happens once the pieces are taken out of the kiln. They are placed into reduction buckets that contain various combustible materials, creating an environment of smoke and reduction. This reaction between heat and smoke as it cools results in the beautiful crackles that are characteristic of raku ceramics.
I have wholeheartedly embraced this captivating technique to create my unique animal sculptures, with a particular focus on sheep, highland cows, and donkeys. These animals hold a special place in my heart, as they symbolise my upbringing in Cumbria, a place known for its stunning landscapes and abundant wildlife. Growing up in such a picturesque and nature-filled environment has left an indelible mark on my artistic inspiration.