Her work evokes mystery and intrigue with masterful use of porcelain...
Jennie McCall is a sculptor and illustrator whose award-winning work captivates audiences across the UK and internationally. Exhibiting from her studio in the picturesque Midlands countryside, Jennie masterfully works with porcelain to create striking pieces that showcase its translucent and pure qualities, evoking mystery and intrigue. Her impressive body of work can be found in numerous private collections, including those of the Royal Mail and the Royal Society of Arts.
Scottish Roots and Inspiration
Growing up in the Scottish Borders, Jennie's artistic vision was profoundly shaped by the abundant natural surroundings and rich local folklore. Her happiest childhood memories involve collecting and preserving flowers and leaves, which she now incorporates as ceramic decals in her sculptures. Rare family trips to the seaside yielded treasures of shells and pebbles that fueled her imagination with visions of mermaids and sea monsters—themes that continue to influence her work today.
Techniques and Achievements
Jennie developed her ceramic and mixed media practice alongside her professional illustration career, maintaining a deep connection to nature and mythology throughout her artistic journey. She works primarily with stoneware and porcelain clays, often combining them to create pieces with both strength and delicate translucency. To enhance the intricate details in her sculptures, Jennie applies multiple layers of oxides and lustres, sometimes requiring several firings to achieve her desired effects. Her smaller works are occasionally modeled in wax and cast in bronze, complementing her larger ceramic sculptures. Jennie's exceptional talent has earned her numerous accolades, including the Design Award for Illustration from the Royal Society of Arts and the Goldmark Ceramics Award.