Diane Griffin

Ceramicist

©A Griffin

©P Lapsley

Poetic ceramic sculptures

Diane is a ceramic sculptor based in England
She has over 30 years of experience working with clay
Her creations are rich in texture and meaning

It is impossible not to be mesmerised by Diane Griffin’s ceramics. Inspired by human experience and emotions, as well as rituals and ceremonies, her works depict contrasting abstract forms. Diane works with soft slab forming, slabbing, throwing, and hand building which allows her to create different forms and surfaces that captivate. Her signature stroke is to create paper-thin finishes. She uses traditional techniques in porcelain and stoneware clays. Diane has a BA Hons in Ceramics from West Surrey College of Art & Design. She set up her first workshop in 1988, right after graduation. Her works are frequently exhibited around the UK and internationally, including at both London Art Fair and Collect.

Interview

©A Griffin

©A Griffin

How did you choose to become a ceramicist?: Clay offers such versatility with so many different making and firing techniques. And that means there is always something new to explore and develop. I love making things with my hands and learning new skills, so a career in ceramics keeps me interested and inspired constantly.
Do you remember the moment when you first thought of picking up this craft?: I was visiting the textiles department at the university in Farnham as I was thinking of applying for a textiles degree. The ceramics department was directly opposite and I popped in out of curiosity. I was instantly drawn to how immediate, tactile, and responsive clay was.
What was the first object you made?: It was a series of sculptural vessels made in earthenware with dry colourful glazes. These had additions of copper and silver wire which were patinated to blend with the glazes and give an aged feel. Looking back now, I see similar aesthetic themes still run through my work.
What are your characteristic skills?: I am often asked how I get the clay to be so thin. I have developed techniques over time that allow me to work with clay to make paper-like finishes. Also, like many creatives, I am good at problem-solving and this is indispensable in a craft making unique things.

Diane Griffin is an expert artisan: she began her career in 1988