As a Buchan “Quine”* with family links to the Outer Hebrides, I have many opportunities to observe these wonderful animals in their natural habitat. That dark wistful gaze, intelligent curiosity, playfulness and super sleek form are a winning combination. I have tried hard to capture it. Looking at the first two images taken at Banff beach, looking towards Macduff, I feel like I am getting there.

Each of my seals is totally unique and completely hand-sculpted… no moulds. They are created using buff clay or raku clay and once they are leather hard,  hours are spent burnishing* each piece to achieve their ultra smooth, glass-like surface. (*See “Work In Progress” Page) Liquid clay (slip) is painted on as a resist before the seals are smoke-fired in a fire pit outside. This produces their dappled coats and then they are waxed to enhance their sleek appearance.

It is a very elemental, hands on process of artful play; creating using fire, air, water and earth, and the magic element of the unexpected, which smoke-firing always brings.

Commissions undertaken.