Hi there, I am Abi, the human being behind "handmade by abi" I'm a potter, tutor, print-maker & generally creative person. I teach creative workshops all over the North Pennines as well as regular 10 week pottery courses for Teesdale Pottery Group in Barnard Castle. I believe everybody is creative, some people just haven't found 'their thing' yet...

 

I live in a little village in the North Pennines which has a great influence on my work and life. Along with my appreciation for rugged landscapes and the natural world, I'm also inspired by my northern heritage (which is currently drawing me towards quilt-making, and basket making). I am continuing to learn more about ceramic surface decoration to develop new ways of communicating ideas of landscape heritage (and sometimes just quirky little illustrations)  

 

My life ethos is all about making things myself so I can connect to the full process and therefore the finished piece in a more intimate way, whether that be a willow basket, natural balms, the food I grow and the pottery I create... I pour my heart and soul into everything I do and I am constantly learning through my own trial and error.

I am in love with the planet and enjoy getting to know plants, animals and people. I enjoy walking, gardening, creating, meeting new people and taking part in community projects. I'd like to think of myself as a preeetty approachable person, so please do get in touch if you'd like to hear more about my work, ethos or anything else :)

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