Adam works in porcelain, creating thrown functional and large one-off pots.
Adam Frew is a distinguished ceramic artist based in rural Northern Ireland, renowned for his masterful porcelain vessels that capture the spontaneous energy of the throwing process. His work is a testament to the delicate balance between traditional craft and contemporary artistic expression.
Training and Artistic Development
Adam's ceramic journey began during his studies at Belfast Art College, where he developed a profound passion for production pottery. During this formative period, he spent significant time at the historic Winchcombe Pottery and studied with Judy Makela in Finland, experiences that would deeply influence his artistic approach.
Adam Frew's Art
After graduating with first-class honors in 2004, Adam embarked on a transformative two-year apprenticeship with renowned potter Lisa Hammond in London. This experience provided him with the skills and confidence to establish his own artistic practice. He returned to Northern Ireland and became the resident potter at Flowerfield Arts Centre for 12 years, before moving to Aghadowey in Co. Derry to create a purpose-built studio beside his home.
Artistic Philosophy and Technique
Frew's ceramic work is characterized by clean, simple forms created on the potter's wheel, which subtly reveal the maker's hand and imbue a sense of life into each piece. He is particularly inspired by contrasts-sharp lines, crayon scribbles, brush marks, and sponged sections-continuously evolving his decorative techniques. His recent work explores relief elements, experimenting with colored rings and innovative glazing methods to create pieces that draw the viewer's eye across their dynamic surfaces.