Alex McCarthy
Alex McCarthy | Ceramics | Bristol
Alex McCarthy is a Bristol-based ceramicist. The tactile qualities of his ceramics are inspired by textures that surround us, such as tree bark, natural rocks, cracking paint, and even marine life. He uses the thrown vessel as a canvas to investigate the properties of these surfaces. Metal oxides add depth, while the gold, platinum, and copper lustre adds a sense of opulence.
Alex's career began in Devon, but he has lived in Bristol for the last nine years, where he creates objects that harmoniously connect surface and form.
His pieces draw formal inspiration from simple ceramic profiles, with their highly textured surfaces reflecting his fascination with touch.
Each piece is intentionally unique, as Alex believes every vessel has its own story to tell. He encourages viewers to interact with the work through touch, perhaps feeling the journey of the pot.
As a ceramicist, he is excited by the range of textural qualities that can be achieved with different clays and materials sourced from the earth. He continually explores various techniques to create these unique surfaces, keeping his interest ever renewed.