Ceramic objects are time machines. The time-collapsing effect of seeing a Roman roof tile with cats’ paw prints tracked across it, or a Minoan vase covered with expressive swooshes of brushstrokes, is the best way of time-travelling I know. Things that were fresh out of the kiln hundreds of years ago are exactly the same as they are now, which is like a kind of magic trick.

‘A Menopause In Maiolica’ is my project for Collect Open, and is my response to the experience I’ve had of menopause, using the style and visual language of Italian Renaissance Maiolica pharmacy jars to depict various aspects of ‘the change’, both negative and positive.  

A preoccupation with linking bygone European ceramics and decorative art styles with the present day is distinctly evident in Katrin’s ceramic practice. References to Georgian and baroque interior design, Dutch still life and vernacular painting, Italian maiolica and European delftware are all found in her work.

A literary theory known as ‘reader-response’ is the foundation for Katrin’s project work. Her meticulously constructed and hand painted creations bring found texts and classic literature into tangible existence. With humour and joy she creates a multitude of shapes; sculptures, platters and historical recreations, albarello jars, posset pots, pill slabs and leech jars.

Katrin shapes her work around whole collections inspired by chosen texts and European ceramic traditions. Between larger collections for galleries and museums she takes on a small number of individual private commissions each year.

For more information about exhibiting Katrin's work and commissions please get in touch.