A day at the studio

Lee Page Hanson talks about getting into ceramics, what inspires him and his favourite part of the making process.

Who or what got you into making?

I did a pottery class as part of a course at college, which I enjoyed. So when the chance of applying for a brand new Ceramics diploma came up, I jumped at it. The tutor was enthusiastic and knowledgeable - He inspired me and sold me the course.

Could you please tell us a bit about your work?

I press mould, coil and slab build functional Ceramics. I use Earthenware and Porcelain Clay bodies. My work has both figurative and Abstract surface pattern themes. I combine textures, embossing methods and Collage with precious metal lustres and enamel transfers..

What is your favourite part of the making process?

I love to paint my pots with a big brush and gooey decorating slip. I enjoy constructing embossed paper collages which I cast in Porcelain. Cutting out the enamel transfers and applying them to my pots is great fun.

What are your inspirations?

Cycling through Manchester City centre everyday, watching the construction of the skyline with the angles of the buildings juxtaposed with multi coloured cranes. Walking in the Yorkshire dales - the undulating hillsides, peaks and valleys. I'm drawn to bold metallics and floral patterns found on traditional Japanese prints.

Whilst taking an Art history qualification at Art college I was introduced to 20th Century modernism which had a big impression especially Bauhaus and De Stijl with their emphasis on simple bold colours and lines.

What are you working on right now?

I’m working on a commission for a set of bee tiles that are going to be grouted into a window ledge. The client calls herself Queen Bee and is a Bee keeper.

Where can we find more of your work?

You can see my latest work in my studio shop at Manchester Craft & Design Centre. I’ve been designing, making and selling my work in Manchester's Northern Quarter for the past 20 years.

Follow my Etsy shop to keep updated and see the latest designs.