Rhian Jones

Welsh potter, Rhian Jones, hand builds ceramic vessels with gold gilding. Since graduating from Carmarthen School of Art with her ceramics degree she has been perfecting the techniques of her craft.

“The methods used to create the pieces are volatile; the alchemy reflects the fundamental elements of our composition. Records of the organic process are imprinted on the vessels in a cosmic array of patterns and colours. Rapid temperature changes of the open pit fire cause superficial cracks which are repaired with gold, a metaphor for life’s journey.”

Rhian uses the oldest known method of firing pottery, pit firing. The unpredictable nature of this method creates un- certain outcomes due to the ferocity and intensity of the firing. An array of organic materials are burnt with the wares, adorning them with beautiful colours and markings that could never be recreated. A true collaboration with nature.

The pots almost always crack, caused by the stresses of temperature changes. In response to this, the pieces are reassem- bled and gilded with 24ct gold. The Eastern technique, Kintsugi (golden joinery) is the art of repairing broken pottery with gold, with the understanding that the piece is more beautiful having been broken and restored.

Breathing new life into these ancient techniques, the amalgamation of Eastern practice with ancient mysticism results in a contemporary object of great beauty.