New Ashgate Gallery champions the best of contemporary art and craft providing an unparalleled resource in Farnham, Surrey and beyond
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Diane Griffin
Our friendly and knowledgeable team is happy to help: 01252 713208 | gallery@newashgate.org.uk
Biography
Diane's ceramic sculptures are inspired by human experience, and how we connect with each other and the world around us through rituals and ceremonies.
She first became interested in the use of rituals during a trip to the Wailing Wall in Jerusalem in 1985: "I was fascinated to watch as people prayed and left messages as a way to feel a sense of connection to each other, their spiritual selves and a higher power. Religions and cultures across the world have used the elements of the natural world in ceremonies and rituals for millennia and it is this connection that continues to inspire my work all these years later."
Diane's poetic sculptures are rich in contrasting textures. Rough and cracked surfaces are united with delicate sheets of ruffled porcelain. Precious metallic elements further accentuate the organic textures. They combine something precious in amongst earthy textures which perhaps comes from digging for 'treasure' in her back garden as a child and unearthing many victorian bottles, jars and pipes. She uses a variety of techniques and clays in combination. Throwing, hand building and carving are used to achieved different textures, surfaces and forms. She uses layers of slips and glazes that are fired many times to achieve the required result. She works in porcelain and earthenware clays with a variety of processes, each with it's own rhythm and nuance which she unites into the final piece. Her sculptures offer a focal point for connecting with memories, personal stories and emotions, establishing private moments of contemplation.
