About
Studio Andlee was established in 2020 in Ainslie, Australian Capital Territory, Australia. My visual arts practice returned to working largely in clay to explore social and political issues about the fragility of nature and life. By observing things closely I investigate the beauty in the detail. The commodity of time is increasingly precious and I invest heavily with time in making each work. The forms are sometimes functional and increasingly sculptural. I am interested in the surface and what lies within.
My life long background in education and the arts includes working in education and the museum and gallery sector in Adelaide and Canberra. I received formal qualifications in visual arts at UniSA (MVA Visual Arts and BEd. Fine Arts).
Currently I am working full time, based in my studio in Canberra, and enjoy working collaboratively with other artists (Grounded Artists Group) and independently.
Amanda Andlee POLAND
April 2023
Create
It all begins with thinking deeply. Responding to the idea whilst remembering, researching, seeing and feeling is a critical stage.
The time, space, clay and tools enable the process to realise the concept and idea.
Either wheel thrown, wheel thrown and altered or handbuilt by slab, pinch or coil technique - the forms created are ready for the surface consideration.
Carve
Carving to various depths enhances the form of the vessel and the surface. The carving begins at a point, like a drawing, and then describes the outline, the spaces in between and the detail. Sometimes I use just one tool type, a wire ended carving tool and have even worn through the wire! Sometimes I use more specialist carving tools.
The state of the clay when you carve impacts on the surface finish. Leatherhard is ideal for carving. Maintaining the clay at the same ‘wetness’ for the entire carving process is desirable as it enables a consistent visual effect.
Fire
Once the clay is dry the vessel is ready to be bisque fired. I fire in an electric kiln and bisque fire to 1000 degrees. The vessel can then be glazed (or not) and fired again to the maximum temperature for the clay. I generally fire to 1280 degrees which is stoneware. I have two TETLOW electric kilns. I generally use one kiln for bisque firing and the larger 3 phase kiln for glaze firing.
Share
I am developing concepts for a significant body of work for an exhibition planned for December 2024. The process includes researching independently and collaboratively with two other artists.
In addition I have very small batches of works for sale and undertake commissions.
Exhibiting work as a finalist in Art Prizes is also a focus for my work.
Please contact me via text 0459727398 or email <studioandlee@gmail.com> to discuss your interest in my work.