Adele Howitt

Studio Eleven

Ceramicist

Ceramic landscapes

Adele opened Studio Eleven in 2009
She investigates the notions of living landscapes
As a colourist, her ceramics only speak of one colour each

Adele Howitt has been working as an independent designer and ceramic artist for over 25 years. In 2009, she opened her own workshop called Studio Eleven. Her portfolio of hand-built outdoor and indoor architectural ceramics and public art investigates the notions of living landscapes and natural patterns, utilising traditional 18th-century British pottery techniques. Adele views clay as a sculptural medium as opposed to a technical medium, creating stunning monochrome floral compositions using intricate twisted and turned slab work constructions. Her detailed relief ceramics represent indigenous wildflowers from post-industrial sites, evoking a conceptual reflection of the real landscapes in the 21st century.

Interview

Why did you choose this profession?: The material really dictated my career. It’s such an amazing conduit to the imagination. The methodology of the working process teaches one to be organised. I enjoy the chemistry and the material nature. If produced correctly, it is perfect for any environment.
How do you combine tradition and innovation in your work?: I research 18th century potteries and apply many of those techniques to my work. I aim to innovate through making a conceptual reflection of the real landscapes in the 21st century, rather than imitating the beautiful, albeit idealised landscapes, which appear on the historic ceramics.
What thrills you most about your work?: I feel very lucky to work with these materials and to be able to express my concerns through ceramic art. My profession allows a constant flow of ideas coupled with time to practise and hopefully perfect the craft execution.
Could your craft be considered in danger?: I do consider this craft to be in danger. Many schools, colleges and universities have dismantled their ceramics department. Ceramics is undergoing a transformation from the commercial to the arts and hopefully this will be included in future curriculums.

Adele Howitt is a master artisan: she began her career in 1988 and she started teaching in 1998