ABOUT ME

TIME IN STONE, TIME IN CLAY

Through clay I can express what words cannot. It connects me with the essence of our planet. Clay helps me to slow down and find a rhythm that is in tune with Nature. I need to get to the source of things: molten lava solidifying into rock and eroding over time into clay. Rock is our foundation, right under our feet. Clay captures the timeless expression of rock, the perfect medium.

CARINE VAN GESTEL

Born in Antwerp, Belgium, lives and works in Machynlleth, Powys

"My studio is in Machynlleth situated in the beautiful Dyfi valley, a landscape steeped in legends, mythology, mountains, rivers,the sea and wild clay. The local geology is an inspiration, and I don’t know when the next spark of an idea or project will strike. Working intuitively, I contemplate how to develop ideas while considering the impact of my work on the environment. Gathering impressions together, projects take shape and often surprise me. My work is hand built using processes that are simple and immediate while striving for aesthetically harmonious and technically well-constructed forms."

HOW I WORK

Inspiration comes from the metamorphosis of rock and how fire interacts with the minerals in clay. I am drawn to Neolithic tools and artefacts and the many cup and ring stones found in various locations on this island honouring our deep connection with Nature.

My work is constructed using hand building techniques using black and white stoneware bodies and more recently wild clay.

Some of my work is finished in a woodfired kiln where clay and fire sing together creating pieces that are unique. These fire songs are raw and edgy with a crusty, moody element. They speak to me of the connection we have with the core of our existence, the molten heat deep in the belly of the Earth. Working with fire leaves traces of ash deposits, shadows of flickering flame and a reminder of our connection between the past and the future.

EXHIBITIONS, EVENTS AND WORKSHOPS

Details of past and future exhibitions, workshops and events are here and on my Instagram Feed