Hi, I’m Lorraine, the owner of Peninsula Pottery, where I handcraft memories through the art of pottery. Let me share a little bit about my journey and the inspiration behind my work.
Drawing on the stunning landscapes and rich historical architecture of the North West of Ireland, I infuse each piece with a touch of abstract artistic influence. It’s my way of capturing the essence of this beautiful corner of the world and transforming it into tangible art.
My love for landscapes traces back to my school days, where I often found myself gazing out the window at the Sperrin Mountain Range instead of burying my nose in textbooks. The simplicity of younger years was filled with nostalgic ‘when I was young’ stories. Running through fields and jumping gates left a lasting connection to nature.
With a degree in Design Technology and a hands-on passion for throwing pots, I embarked on a creative journey that eventually led me to establish Peninsula Pottery, twenty years later. Now settled in the landscape of Inishowen, I draw inspiration from the rugged coastline, rolling hills, and dramatic seascapes, which are reflected in my Peninsula Range.
My experience of living in vibrant cities, with their energy and vitality, inspired the City=Line Range. These urban spaces, with their diverse personalities and cultures, fuel my imagination and evoke a sense of drama and boundless dreams.
In all of my pottery, I play with shapes, cutting and altering them to represent the journey of life – full of peaks and troughs. Yet, amidst these changes, I’m deeply aware that it’s the emptiness within each pot that gives it purpose, as Lao Tzu beautifully philosophised: “We mould clay into a pot, but it is the emptiness inside that makes the vessel useful.”
Reflecting on the geography that surrounds us, I include an information card with each piece, sharing the aspirations that the scenery aspires to. It’s my way of infusing each creation with a sense of place and purpose.
At Peninsula Pottery, I believe that each piece tells a story – a story of the land, the sea, and the people who inhabit it. And through my handcrafted pottery, I aim to capture and preserve these memories for generations to come.
