Linda Bloomfield

Ceramicist

©Ben Boswell

©Duncan Davis

When chemistry meets art

Linda specialises in thrown porcelain tableware
She is an author of numerous books on ceramics
Her work is recognizable by the use of lichen-effect glazes

Sublime beauty lives in Linda Bloomfield’s pottery. Simple and functional, her objects possess artistic flair and mesmerize with their refinement and colours. She uses her own glazes and gives preference to the translucent colours that the oxides produce. Linda has an engineering background and extensive experience in the world of pottery, she has been creating objects since 1973. Apart from the making, Linda is also a writer, she has written several books on various aspects of the craft that were all hits among pottery enthusiasts. The talented craftswoman is also keen on sharing her knowledge often hosting online and offline ceramic workshops.

Interview

©Henry Bloomfield

©Ben Boswell

How did you start your ceramic journey?: It all started when I was 16, there was a local potter who was art school-trained. I learned wheel throwing from her. I had loved the craft since my first pottery class as a child.
How would you define your work?: I make porcelain tableware, sculpture and write books on glazes. Throwing porcelain is my primary specialisation and I master glaze chemistry.
What is your creation process?: First of all, I use traditional throwing techniques and apply special effect glazes. As for the practicalities, one of the lesser-known things about the craft is that the ingredient that makes my matt glazes so tactile is talc or soapstone.
Why do you love your profession?: I love this craft because it allows me to use both my hands and my intellect, I love the feel of porcelain while throwing. One of the most memorable moments of my life as a ceramicist was having my tableware sold in Liberty of London.

Linda Bloomfield is a master artisan: she began her career in 1998 and she started teaching in 2012