Using real flowers and foliage, I create tiles by pressing the plants into soft flat clay. Once I am happy with my composition, every petal, leaf, seed, stem and stamen is removed to reveal a negative impression. 

​

A wooden frame is then placed around the composition and fine casting plaster in poured in.  This dries for several hours after which the clay is peeled away to reveal a fossil like relief cast. 

​

The process of bas relief casting is simple and has its roots in ancient history.  The selection of plants and how they are arranged is what can make a piece stand out.

    

Since becoming a passionate gardener I have love this way of preserving small snippets of what I grow and nurture.  My compositions are dictated by the plants I select, as not all flowers work well and so, like gardening there is an element of trial and error, but even when a cast is not successful, it still never disappoints as there is still so much to admire in each imperfect revelation.

​

My work is largely unpainted to reflect an intricate yet uncomplicated perspective, celebrating shape, form and texture. Different finishes are achieved by allowing residue and staining left behind by different clay bodies.  Occasionally I add pigment or gold and silver leaf to my work and I am also now taking silicone moulds of selected smaller pieces to produce in limited editions.

​

All commissions are one offs and unique.  My tiles range from 8cm to 80cm.  I am currently trying out cements to enable large outdoor pieces.  I take commissions and I preserve bridal flowers which I love and is becoming a fast growing part of my business.