Helen Robins

I am a ceramic artist living in Perth, Western Australia. I originally trained as a teacher and further studied behavioural science. After a lifelong interest in clay, I established my studio in 2015 where I make contemporary sculptures and vessels influenced by the Western Australian landscape.

My sculptures are complex and delicate structures built by layering individual pieces of clay over a central shape. I later add other objects such as metal or wire which can be fired into the form. I build these slowly, enjoying the meditative process of adding piece by piece. I also like the unpredictability of combining different materials together as each work will not be the same.

My current artwork aims to explore the ongoing synergy between our environment and inner self. Living by the sea, I’m fascinated by the relationship of the shoreline to the ocean and it’s similarities to our own identity. Like the coastline, we have two interrelated parts: an outer shore and a hidden depth. Our outer experiences shape our inner thoughts and feelings which in turn influences the way we act. My sculptures are built in layers to symbolise the structures we create to protect or express ourselves. I add wire or metal to represent the unavoidable discord in our lives. By acknowledging these parts of self that we can begin to understand who we are and our fit in world.

In contrast my vessels are simpler in construction and form. These are hand built and finished with simple glazes, oxides and slips to reflect the Australian landscape. I make these for enjoyment, using traditional methods to create pleasing and earthy objects. The repetition and refining of skills connects me to the long history of ceramics and to those who went before me. This in turn grounds my practice, giving me a sense of place and who I am as an artist.

Helen welcomes commissions.

You can find Helen’s ceramics :: online via the links below. Contact her for further information about available works.