Love for the outdoors and
the coast provides all the
inspiration needed for
each project to begin…
Slab and Slip is the artistic vision of ceramicist Sarah Cawthray.
I specialize in creating hand-built, three-dimensional ceramic forms using both stoneware and porcelain. Depending on the desired outcome, I choose highly grogged stoneware for its strength in structural pieces, while porcelain serves as a perfect blank canvas for showcasing vibrant colours.
In my work, I incorporate found objects to leave unique impressions in the clay. Additionally, I craft clay imprints from natural elements like boulders and rocks, transforming them into bisque ceramic molds that enrich the tactile dimension of my pieces.
Each mark, crack, and tear becomes a part of the story I tell through my work. These details emerge organically as I shape the clay, often guided by a spontaneous response to my surroundings. The process feels like a dialogue—a flow of ideas, textures, and colours inspired by the walks I take and the narratives they bring to life.
As part of my MA, I immersed myself in the stunning landscapes of the North York Moors, exploring the Cleveland Way. The forms and colours of my work draw inspiration from the area's standing stones, rugged cliff formations, and vast moorlands. To achieve the unique colours, I used found clay and natural oxides, then Saggar fired each piece in my electric kiln.
