Jemma Gowland

Porcelain maker

©Karen Bengall Photography

The white figures of childhood

Jemma creates expressive, detailed porcelain figures
She explores themes of childhood and life in her works
Her pieces captivate with their dynamic poses

Jemma Gowland creates expressive and detailed porcelain figures exploring childhood, upbringing and attitude, using cast doll faces, fired dressmaker’s pins and mixed media. Her figures show children dressed for display, with their looks and behaviour already pre-determined. Her work also describes strength and modern challenges, illustrating the masks we all use as a disguise to fit into the world. Jemma first trained for a BSc in Engineering Product Design, before becoming a teacher of Design and Technology. Whilst experienced in a very broad range of materials used for a wide range of purposes, ceramics and porcelain became her primary interest over time. "In my experience, the technical challenges and opportunities porcelain offers are endless. It has unique versatility and surface possibilities," she offers. Today, Jemma works mostly with porcelain.

Interview

©Karen Bengall Photography

©Karen Bengall Photography

What makes your work recognisable?: I believe my work has a very individual style, despite its basis in a long tradition. There are aspects of the process, such as the cast doll faces, the detailed clothing, and the use of gold lustre, that can be easily recognised.
How would you describe a perfect work day for you?: The perfect day is one where no phone rings and no emails call me away. The music is on, the woodburner is lit, and the bench is full of sketches and ideas just waiting to be made real.
What do you love most about your craft?: I am endlessly intrigued by this material. Porcelain is difficult, temperamental, a few degrees difference in the kiln can be disastrous – yet nothing else will produce the same whiteness, and the same hardness.
How is your atelier organised?: Living in the countryside I work alone in my studio, apart from the ‘help’ of two pet donkeys, dogs, and hens. I find the peace essential for concentration, and for maintaining focus through the many stages involved in making each piece.

Jemma Gowland is a master artisan: she began her career in 2015 and she started teaching in 2017