Artist Judith Paisley is a well-known ceramicist who is passionate about the raw and rustic firing techniques such as Raku, Naked Raku, Saggar and Pit firings. These techniques have a close interaction between nature and the elements, with the physical input and influence of the artist. Together with Judith's own unique style and creativity, this results in one-off sculptural artworks.

"Art as “self-expression” is an extension of oneself, a capture of one's moods and emotions at a particular moment in time, perhaps in some instances even a bearing of one’s soul."

Q & A:

What is your favourite -Song or Band or Musical Genre?
Jazz and some Classical. In the studio, depending on what stage – in construction mode I listen to Jazz. When in intricate and detail stage requiring concentration, I listen to Classical. When driving, I listen to Classical, it keeps me calm and focused and curbs impatience.

Are you a Coffee or Tea person, and what is your go to order?
Hot chocolate with marshmallows, but to answer the above question, I’d have to say a Tea person.

Who is the Artist who inspires you most?
David Roberts – world renowned ceramist and Raku artist. A perfectionist and patience personified, so inspiring.

Where was your most memorable vacation?
A French Pottery, Wine and Jazz tour: On the go from 7.00am till midnight every day for 2 amazing action packed, weeks. Staying with local Potters, (one of which was at a 300 year, old, chateau). Visited studios and galleries throughout the Drome region (known for its pottery towns).
Far from your typical tourist trail; it was an invitation to share a way of life and insight into the lives of French Potters and an industry that has become their life. Every afternoon we’d race back to Lyon to the Jazz festival till midnight. The program was a smorgasbord of renowned international artists - a once in a lifetime treat.
France in all her glory – a patchwork of vivid colours of purple and yellow with field after field of lavender and sun flowers. France as we will always remember her: Food to die for, wine, freshly baked crusty baguettes, cheese and copious quantities of luscious quality mouth-watering fruit, jazz, pottery, and enchanting ancient villages.

What is the most sentimental thing you have?
My Mothers piano. I could tell what mood she was in by the pieces she would play. It is what evokes the most poignant memories of her and who she was.

Do you collect anything? Hand-made pottery mugs and other artist’s work.

What is on your Bucket list? Top of my list would be a trip to the rugged outback of the Kimberley.

What is the biggest risk you ever took?
Creating and starting up a new business from scratch, on my own, mid-life. I’m a Capricorn, a “non, risk-taker”, who craves security So, for me that was like jumping off a cliff. Amazing how deep we dig when necessity dictates. (Happy to report success and after 10 years, sold and retired – exhausted.) That was when I finally found the time to explore my artistic side, that had been “Bottled up” for so many years…...time to pop the cork!

Do you have a fear, and what is it?
Unfortunately, I have a few. Spiders!!!! Public speaking!!! Volcanic eruptions/bubbling lava flow and Earthquakes (Mother Nature’s uncontrollable fury).