We are pleased to introduce our new cohort of starter studio holders who will be beginning their two year programme here at Yorkshire Artspace in October. This is a very exciting time here as six new artists get settled in and find their way around their new studios and equipment.

Rebecca has recently completed a degree in 3D design from Staffordshire University and before that a foundation diploma at Chesterfield College. Her work is strongly influenced by landscape and the natural world, which she expresses through expressive mark making and painting onto her ceramic wares and vessels. Alongside her fellow ceramic starters Kate Langrish-Smith and Carla Murdoch, Rebecca will begin working in her shared studio here in Persistence Works building from October.

We wish her the best of luck and we look forward to seeing her work and career develop over the forthcoming two years.

How did you hear about the Starter Studio Programme?

I found out about the Starter Studio Programme through Instagram, I noticed the application news being shared and headed straight over to the website to apply.

What made you want to apply?

I'm originally from Chesterfield, and have been studying a BA (hons) in 3D Design: Ceramics in Stoke-on-Trent for last three years. As my time at University was coming to an end, gaining access to a studio seemed like the next step forward. The starter studio had the best opportunities that I could hope for as a recent graduate, giving a specialised ceramic studio with the equipment I will need and I would still be within a creative community that is a great aspect of being a maker.

Can you describe your practice?

My ceramic practice is driven by my expressive drawings, with the abstract shapes deriving from the natural world. The marks and lines that are produced become expressive. The sculptural forms that I create are made with the same high energy and gestural movements as my 2D mark-making. I use the surface as a vehicle for my drawing. Hand-building the pieces gives an immediate connection to the clay and allows me to respond to the material with each coil that I build. The spontaneous lines and shapes emphasis the form. The surface is a continuation of layered slips, oxides, engobes and glazes until the desired result is achieved.

What are you looking forward to most about joining the programme/moving to Sheffield?

I am looking forward to being somewhere different and lively like Sheffield, the programme will allow for access to mentoring and business advice. I can't wait to have a studio again!

Where can people see your work?

People can see my work over on my website, Twitter and Instagram accounts. Website-

Upcoming shows-Art & Show York, October 2018