Art Appreciation: Claris Cliff

This session initially focuses on the life and inspirations of ceramicist and designer Claris Cliff who began her career as a paintress in the potteries in North Staffordshire . We explore her life, relationships and collaborations her rise to success as a renowned designer whose works and pottery are currently very sort after at auction and selling for a very good price . We also look at her connections artistically with the deco movement and how her patterns link to Art Deco . The session allows us to learn about manufacturing methods and how this would have influenced her designs as well as the colours used . The session will allow learners to become familiar with pattern names and shape styles as well as identify backstamps , essential for avid bargain hunters !

The session moves on to the life and work of Suzie Cooper again we explore her collaborations , shapes , designs and patterns . We link this also to the end of the deco era and look at the new designs incorporated . Your lecturer is an artist and product designer who specialised in ceramic design working for Wedgewood in the 1980s and who had the great privilege to work alongside Suzie Cooper in her studio.