I am inspired by subtle lines against bold expressionistic marks. The abstract qualities on my forms are influenced by close up images of appealing contrasts, in particular, Portuguese building walls. They show interesting qualities of composition between mark, shape and colour. Antoni Tapies and Robert Motherwells paintings also inspired me to express my work in a more abstract manner. My own interpretations through drawing and mono printing, in relation to the images, have been a large feature in my ceramic work. Hand building, mould making and slip trailing are a few skills which have enabled me to take 2D ideas onto 3D ceramic forms. The form is as important as the surface; both complement and play off each other. The edges of the pieces are deliberately torn to create diverse contrasts to the surface.

Since graduating in 2009 Amanda has received many offers to exhibit, including some of Londons leading galleries but this is your chance to see her work first. She has also commission for the curator of contemporary textiles at the V&A. “I have been using the facilities at Wolverhampton University to continue making my work and in exchange I have given a few demonstrations to the undergraduates. Next on the list is to have my own studio set up at home in Huddersfield by Summer.”