A Home & Studio

Last year, I had the privilege of visiting the home & studio of British ceramic artist Paul Philp, in Bath. The studio and living spaces merge through a shared natural palette. His ceramic sculptures border every room alongside pieces in Alabaster, timber and a new exploration in cast & patinated bronze.

His influences are both architectural and organic: Japanese Minka architecture, tribal and ancient art, and forms found in nature. During our visit, he spoke about his early life - of building a home in stone by hand, and living remotely off the land - a reflection of his connection to materials.

Philp’s ceramic practice has evolved over 50 years. His works are largely hand built - fired multiple times with thin layers of slip, organic materials and glazes which create rugged surfaces that feel elemental. The volcanic textures recall the raw geology of clay, but the forms have an architectural elegance that feels out of time.

It was a moving experience to see the connection between the work and the space, and to experience his pieces in that context.