KAren Townsend
I Have always felt a deep connection with the natural world, particularly the sea and the coast. My journey has led me from the depths of the ocean as a scuba diver to the soothing embrace of clay in my pottery studio.
​My love affair with the sea began in my teens when my family first moved to the south coast. It wasn't until my late twenties that I slipped beneath the surface with a tank on my back and discovered a world teeming with life and wonder. I've swum alongside majestic sea turtles, photographed schools of colourful fish, and marvelled at the vibrant coral reefs. These experiences have not only provided me with unforgettable memories but also a profound appreciation for the fragile beauty of our oceans.
​
Pottery as a Creative Outlet
My fascination of the sea led me to new ways of expressing my connection with it. After a degree in International Marketing Management, corporate life in the world of promotions and a wonderful career in the wine trade, I returned to the art of pottery which I had experimented with as a teenager. My hands mould the clay, just as the sea shapes the coastline. Working with clay allows me to channel my love for the coast into tangible art. Each piece I create carries a story inspired by the waves, the sand, the sea creatures and my love of corals. The process of shaping clay into sculptural functional pieces is a meditative experience, and has led to my Certificate in "Art as Therapy".
​​
The coast has always been my sanctuary, a place where I find serenity, inspiration and renewal, in awe of the beauty and power of the seas. I am on a quest to merge my love for the ocean with my artistic endeavours, creating a meaningful connection between my two passions.
I invite you to join me on this journey of exploration as I continue to celebrate the beauty and importance of the sea through my creations.