Artist Talk - Florence Dwyer

About

Florence Dwyer's practice is informed by embodied research into object making in different capacities; from industrial manufacturing to vernacular design and domestic craft. Her work often finds form in the domestic, most recently through familiar items of domestic pottery, arcane objects inspired by historical cultural rights, woven tapestries and hand tufted carpets. These evolve through processes that align with those of an experimental archaeologist; studying historical objects and rigorously experimenting with developing colour, pattern and form. This has recently involved investigations into handmade ceramic glazes and dyes made from plant matter, wood ashes and collected pigments.

Dwyer’s research often involves working alongside professional makers in different capacities. This has included undertaking work placements with; Turnberry Rug Manufacturers, Ju'Sha a large factory making porcelain objects for domestic use (Arita, Japan), Andrew Appleby an experimental ceramic archaeologist and Nanuli Asikuri, a carpet weaver, teacher and ethnographer (Georgia).

She is interested in craft pedagogies and often shares parts of her practice through learning environments. This has been informed by a long-standing interest into craft movements such as Black Mountain College, Bauhaus and the Omega Workshops. Much like these movements, Dwyer recognises that the site of West Dean provides a wealth of inspiration where moments of cohabiting, education and craft become entwined.

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