In her Quebec studio, ceramic artist Paula Murray uses her own recipe for porcelain clay that she hand-shapes into intricate pieces and permits the natural drying tensions between her mediums to create unusual abstract shapes. Inspired by forms and patterns found in nature, Murray’s work often reflects the deeply spiritual connection between humans and the natural world.

With its creamy colour and contrasting veining, the ‘Circling Around ‘vessel continues Murray’s exploration of the furled form. The finely detailed porcelain piece pushes the boundaries of traditional fired clay.

“When I speak of my vessels in connection with the human condition, I think of them as holding a sacred space. At this point I am working to bring more prominence and clarity to colouring the fissures. I am presenting them to enhance a feeling of momentum in the furling forms. I like the possibility that their presentation can change.” Paula Murray

She has received many honours and international awards and was elected into the RCA in 2006. Murray’s work has been gifted by the Canadian government to dignitaries such as US President George W. Bush and UN Secretary Kofi Annan. Murray’s pieces can be found in private and public collections including the Canadian Museum of Civilization, the Banff Centre, the Gardiner Museum, Musée national des beaux-arts du Québec, the Official Residence of the Prime Minister in Canada and Canada House in London, England.