Susan Obyrne

Susan studied at Edinburgh College of Art from 1994-99 graduating with 1st Class honours in Design and Applied Arts (Ceramics). This was followed by a Post Graduate Diploma in Ceramics - also at Edinburgh. She was invited to show her work in the New Designers exhibition in London in July where she received the Highly Commended Award (free studio space for 1 year at The Harley Foundation, Yorkshire). In January of this year, Susan was awarded a 2-week drawing and research trip to Kenya in March by the CPA Charitable Trust Fund Award. Susan's work has been reviewed in several publications including; Homes and Interiors Scotland (1999 & 2000) and Ceramic Review in May/June 2000.

"Animals are an important metaphor for me. The can have a special emotional connection for many children and can be a comfort to some from the time of childhood to old age. Animal stories help streamline complicated adult life and feelings while their names, behaviour, body shape and pattern can open up and develop a child's imagination and learning.My animals are made from high-fired paper clay, porcelain and wire. Because they hang in the kiln from the skeletal wire structure underneath the clay, their shape changes subtly and is emphasised in the firing progress. I like to display my animals in groups and often with another element. Highlighting the narrative, birds are chased by Zebras and Cheetahs walk against the rain."