Machines of Loving Grace by Stephen Adams ARBSA

About

An exhibition of pottery, using stoneware, earthenware and Raku processes. The work is constructed using mechanical engineering techniques of bolting and assembly to form more complex units.

Stephen began work as an apprentice engineering toolmaker, and later qualified as an engineering design draughtsman in 1972. He completed his degree course in 1979 at Loughborough College of Art & Design, gaining a first class honours degree in ceramics and 3-d design. Much of his work is influenced by his previous engineering training, which has continued to develop using different materials and techniques. He uses a variety of ceramic materials, usually dependent on the scale or thermal qualities required. These include craft crank for large scale sculptures, T-material for raku, and porcelain for smaller pieces. His work is often completed and complimented using bolts, chains and mechanical fittings. His interest lies not with the practical element of ceramic forms, but with the sculptural. He is continuing to pursue the theme of mechanical forms, and gather stimulus from the rich industrial heritage of the Black Country, and from photographs taken of shipwrecks whilst scuba diving.