Welsh ceramic artist Rhian Jones hand builds ceramic vessels with gold gilding.

“The methods used to create the pieces are volatile; the alchemy reflects the fundamental elements of our composition. Records of the organic process are imprinted on the vessels in a cosmic array of patterns and colours. Rapid temperature changes of the open pit fire result in complete and superficial cracks which are then repaired with gold.”

 Jones uses the oldest known method of firing pottery, pit firing. The unpredictable nature of this method creates uncertain outcomes due to the ferocity and intensity of the firing. An array of organic materials are burnt with the wares, adorning them with beautiful colours and markings which could never be recreated. A true collaboration with nature.

 The vessels almost always crack during the firings, caused by the stresses of rapid temperature changes. In response to this, the pieces are reassembled and gilded with 24ct gold. The Eastern technique, Kintsugi (golden joinery) is the art of repairing broken pottery with gold, with the understanding that the piece is more beautiful having been broken and restored.