Terroir (i)

From a conceptual perspective it's important to me that the materials used in the 'Concrete Truth' series were representative of the environment they were created in. As concrete is one of the most ubiquitous, and utilitarian building materials I often use it in my work.

I hadn't used clay up to this point, but when visiting Marrakech for an Agents of Change group show last May, I was amazed by the impact 'the Red City' has on its visitors. The surrounding area is famed for its deep red clay and the buildings in the old city are simply a continuation of this landscape.

During the trip I arranged to carry out a mini project at a pottery studio half way between Marrakech and the Atlas mountains. The artisans were extremely hospitable including me in all their lunch breaks. Many a tagine was cooked by the kiln – I love Moroccan food so this made the journey a reason in itself.

There is more work in the 'Terroir series' to come.