Francisca Blackburne

Recent work is focused on a more painterly approach to decoration with use of colourful slips on earthenware. Most pieces are functional.
Also, working in porcelain emphasizing the quality of the natural clay with clear glaze and manipulation of edges and surfaces.
Career started 40 years ago, working for Chelsea Pottery, London followed by 10 years self employment making decorative functional and commemorative pieces in tin glazed earthenware. During this time I also worked collaboratively with other potters in Dorset; La Borne, France; Wenford Bridge, Cornwall.
In 1995 I did a BA Hons Degree in 3D Crafts at Brighton University, choosing wood and ceramics. This led to teaching ceramics in adult education and Italian School of International Ceramics in Tuscany. In 2001 I enrolled in a new PGCE course for practicing artists initiated by London Institute Education.
This led to teaching art for 2 years at AS/A Level before moving to Italy for 3 years. On my return to UK, I continued to make whilst following courses in counselling at Chichester University with and then Integrative Art Psychotherapy at Institute for Art in Education, London. I also worked part-time for Portsmouth Mind teaching ceramics and a placement at Richmond Fellowship, Chichester.