RBSA Exhibition 2019

Trilogy

These pieces are taken from a series which marks part three of a trilogy of enigmatic works and further explores themes of the unknown, and undefined.  Originating with a series called Footsteps on Shadows, Hazel built on these early foundations to create the series Secrets.
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Mysteries

Now in this final chapter we are provoked with the notion that there is yet more we cannot control or understand. Now there are clues and characters, shapes, design and intention but they cannot be made out. Tapping in to our base curiosity, and insecurity the work renders itself intriguing and beguiling, and even a little unsettling. What do we make of it? How long do we spend trying? 
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Form

The classic form of each piece is created using a mould in the shape of old sections of wooden beams which once held up ancient barns in rural Worcestershire. Once shaped the clay work is fired three to four times, and Hazel uses oxide glazes fired at different temperatures in order to create the minimal earthy tones.
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RBSA Exhibition runs from 14th March - 13th April 2019; RBSA Gallery, 4 Brook Street, Birmingham, B3 1SA
RBSA Open All Media Exhibition 2019

About

​The Haze (née Driftwood) has been established since the mid nineties. Intitally specialising in ceramics, maker Hazel Thomson has ventured in to the world of fused glass, and now continues to develop exceptional sculptural as well as functional work in both mediums. 

Check out the gallery to view work inspired by faith, hope, and Journey.

Also find out about The Haze Retreats.

All of Hazel's work is available to purchase, or you can contact The Haze to discuss bespoke commissions.

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Ceramics

Fused Glass

It is rare to find an artist who so gracefully balances the tensions between earth and ethereal; search and mystery; question and answer. Yet through her inventive sculptural style and solid technique, combined with refined ceramic glazes Hazel Thomson manages just that.
 
It was Hazel’s early studies, and debut work which very much set the tone for her career exploring as she does time and again themes of fragility, strength, and boundaries. Her work is earthy and elemental, and communicates profound and timeless stories which urge you to ponder and meditate upon.
 
Hazel trained first at Bournville college of Art and then Wolverhampton University where she gained a BA (Hons) in Three Dimensional Design Ceramics with Glass. In recent years, she can be found as part of a potters’ cooperative in Hanbury, Worcestershire.
 
Her work has a depth which is worth taking time to consider, and her unique perspective inspires you to search deeper; ‘what lies beyond?’ is the question she is continually inviting you to explore. Of course, the answer is often elusive but the journey is uniquely hopeful.

In recent years Hazel has also ventured into the world of fused glass. Drawn to this material because its properties contrast and in some cases oppose the qualities of clay.


Hazel enjoys the added colour, the transparency – in particular the way the light gets through, reflects and refracts thus adding a new dimension to the way the sculpture is read. It is a material, which unlike clay, is vicious and uncompromising. The mainstay of her training in this field has been through Warm Glass who are affiliated with the American organization Bullseye Glass.


Hazel has begun to develop exceptional sculptural as well as functional work in this field. To see more of her work go to gallery or check out the online shop.

Accolades & recognition

Awards

Certificate of Ceramic Art - Creation & Therapy 2012/13

Certificate of Sculpture - Designing Clay 2012/13

Craftline Award of Excellence 1996

BA (Hons) June 1996 Wolverhampton

Art & Foundation June 1993

​City & Guilds - July 1992

publications

Ceramics Technical No 13

Working with Paper clay and other Additives by Ann Lightwood
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Raku Investigations into Fire by David Jones

Exhibitions

Jinney Ring Sculpture Trail, September 2018,

All Fired Up, Worcester Cathedral, August 2018,

​Ragley Hall, May 2018

MPA Exhibition, Lichfield 2017,

The Search is the Treasure, Lanellen Arts, 2017,

RBSA Prize Exhibition 2016, 2003, 1998, 1997,

Bude Arts & music Festival, Cornwall, 2016

Christian Artists Seminar - KSI Bad Honnef, Germany 2013, 2012, 2011, 

Paper Clay Plus 2000 Crawford Arts Centre St Andrews (toured various locations in Scotland)

​300 Tonnes of Clay at Wolverhampton Museum & Art Gallery 1997

Hatfield - The National Pottery & Ceramics Festival 1996