Judy McKenzie

Ceramicist

©Paul Hammond

©Judy McKenzie

The patterns of nerikomi

Judy came to ceramics as a second career
She holds an MA in Ceramics and Glass from the Royal College of Art
Traditional Japanese nerikomi and kintsugi techniques are central to her creations

Completing her BA in 2015 and then her MA at the Royal College of Art in 2018, Judy McKenzie embraced her biggest passion and started creating ceramics full-time later in life. She makes unique, hand-formed ceramic objects with coloured porcelain, using the thousand-year-old nerikomi technique. Each piece is constructed using several individual parts or slabs of different coloured clays. Judy's artisan path is an inspiring example of following your dreams. Today her award-winning ceramic objects can be found in public galleries and private collections. “Ceramics encapsulate what I love about creating with my hands,” says Judy and adds that “making a ceramic form is a remarkable gift”.

Interview

©Judy McKenzie

©Judy McKenzie

What drew you to ceramics?: It chose me and it would not go away. I have always loved working with clay. Visiting museums and galleries introduced me to the serenity of the moon jar. There is something totally mesmerising and absorbing about the creative processes of working with clay.
When did you open your own workshop?: Immediately after completing my BA in 2015, I set up my studio at my home. I was fortunate enough to be commissioned by a couple of London interior designers to create pieces for their clients and I continue to work for one of them to this day.
Can you explain the nerikomi process?: Usually, every particle is worked by hand, from colouring the porcelain with stains and oxides to forming patterns and creating designs. Patterns are embedded within the porcelain and become the DNA of the material from which forms can be manipulated.
What are people surprised to discover about your craft?: The process of nerikomi is a mystery to most people. I am always asked if the colours are painted onto the surface of the pot. They are always surprised when I tell them that each piece is constructed using several individual components of different coloured clays.

Judy McKenzie is a rising star: she began her career in 2018