Chris Keenan
I like to make the aims of a course clear in the first instance through an introductory talk and discussion after which the students work on their individual projects. I am on-hand throughout to support and advise the students individually or as a group depending on which is most beneficial in the given circumstances.
What will students gain if they come on one of your courses?I hope any student attending a course will enjoy themselves, extending their capacity for working with clay and hopefully leave with a few insights that they can utilise within their own practice in the future.
Are there any particular techniques/processes you use in your teaching?Apart from throwing and turning on the wheel there are no other particular processes.
What inspires your own work?My inspiration stems from the time I met a potter and bought his work - functional kitchen pots in semi-matt glazes. I enjoyed living with, and using them to such an extent that I wanted to learn how to make pots myself. I take inspiration from well-made and beautiful things whatever material they are made from. I find that keeping my eyes open and remaining alert throws up unexpected inspirations.
Where can students see examples of your work?My work can be seen at Contemporary Applied Arts and The Contemporary Ceramics Centre in London and at various galleries around the country. My website is www.chriskeenan.co.uk.
Where did you gain your training/experience?I was apprenticed to Edmund de Waal for two years and have run my own studio in South London since 1998.
What teaching experience have you had?I have worked as a visiting lecturer at several art colleges and most recently taught a master class at St Paul's School in London.
Is your work in any public or private collections?Yes, these include the V&A, Ashmolean Museum, York Art Gallery, Walker Art Gallery and Mima.
Have you written any books/had articles published?An article I wrote about collaborating with industry was published in Ceramic Review.
Do you belong to any professional groups/societites?I have been a Fellow of the CPA since 2004 and a member of Contemporary Applied Arts since 2000. I am also Chair of the Pottery Charitable Trust.