ARTISTS @ THE PACKING SHED

Biography

Kathi Mclean, born and still residing in Clyde, trained and worked as a teacher. However, once she found clay in the late 70"s working with clay both wheel and handwork became her passion.
Kathi's early teachers and mentors came from tutors of the New Zealand Potters Association including Helen Mason, Frederika Ernstein and many others Weekend and week long workshop was the way rural potters the craft. Frederika's words still stay in her mind when on a week's wheelwork workshop she enforced to the participants - "that when you sell your work you are selling your soul" These words still encourage Kathi to look critically and what she is trying to achieve.
In latter years Kathi developed an interest in sculpture, raku and early firing methods. She acknowledges the influence of Prue Miller and of Hector Mavridis. Prue taught her the basics of sculpture her knowledge of raku and primitive firings was further developed by working with Hector Mavridis Almond Grove Northern Greece.
The effects of fire, glaze, slips, water and air on clay continue to inspire Kathi along with the shaping of the clay. Kathi acknowledges that her love of Picasso, Dali and Matisse's painting and sculptures work unconsciously influences her work.

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"Working with clay has been part of my life for over forty years. Over this time I learned my craft from attending many workshops from New Zealand ceramists as well as a two week workshop in Greece.
Throughout the last twenty years I have enjoyed sharing my knowledge and passion with both children and adults through both daily and long term tuition. I work and explore with all pottery techniques and creativity.
I have a passion for alternative firing methods, especially Raku,Saggar process and early pit firing techniques."