Nikki Roberson

Hi, I'm Nikki Roberson, Hertford based Ceramic Artist focusing on hand built stoneware. My influences are varied and inspired by nature and architectural structures. Through my work I am exploring the aesthetic impact of man-made structures built within the natural landscape - in particular industrial buildings and modernist architecture. My work is abstract in design but always functional. Recently I’ve focused on making two ranges of work that at first look very different to each other, however there are recurring themes which are common to both ranges. The first range is a series of bud vases with the form and surface design inspired by the natural landscape of the UK and the contrasting imagery of the geology of the wild Atlantic coast around Cornwall and its industrial mining heritage. My second range of work takes on forms influenced by nature, predominately colour and texture of birds and fish. Brutalist and Modernist architecture is starting to influence the forms of my pots and I’m translating this influence into making larger pieces with multiple elements whilst continuing to use the textural surface designs of my other pots. This is taking me back to exploring the theme of man-made structures within nature. Alongside these themes I am continually exploring the endless possibilities of working with clay. I particularly enjoy the technical nature of making ceramics and all aspects of the processes involved and ultimately how all these processes affect the finished piece.