Here at Springleap we are fans of all forms of design. Whether it be print or digital design, we are always interested in checking out artwork that will inspire us to create even more amazing stuff!

This time around we would like to chat about internationally renowned potter Andrew Walford.
Andrew has exhibited his awe-inspiring artwork on an international stage, including the US, England, Japan and Germany. 

Andrew hails from Shongweni in Kwazulu Natal, where he has been creating breathtaking pottery in his secluded studio for going on 40 years. For those of you who have never been to this part of the world let me assure you that it is beautiful beyond belief. I can truly understand why this master potter chose such a spectacular place to create his work, which is essentially ‘from the Earth’. The inspiration that this area stirs in an artist is more powerful than any Muse.

 ‘Zulu Zen’ is the name that is often cast as a way of describing Andrew Walford’s work. Indeed his mega popular wall tiles are an amalgamation of styles that take their influence from the local South African cultures as well as far-flung exotic destinations such as Japan. He creates his work from a mixture of clays, porcelain and paper. The Japanese style extends to the finishing effects of his work which can be seen in the massive swaths of paint he applied with huge Japanese brushes.

I read a posting that describes the actual colour of his clay pots as a reflection of the “afternoon sun and shadows on the cliffs” surrounding his home. Wow this is such an apt description, which captures the essence of his work perfectly! 

His clay is then given life and depth by using natural ingredients which he finds close to home. The level of dedication that goes into this kind of artwork is astonishing. It’s not like us digital designers who simply ‘boot up’ our machines while we make a cup of coffee and are ready to work. Andrew has an oil burning kiln that takes 24 hours to reach its optimum heat (1380 degrees).
Shooooo, now that is seriously hot! Not to mention that he needs to keep a close eye on the kiln at all times to ensure that the heat is maintained at a steady rate. Only after 3 whole days of cooling will Andrew then be able to take a peek inside and see what he has created.

Talk about devotion to ones work!

If you would like to see Andrew Walford’s amazing work first hand, why not join him at his Cape town exhibition at the home of Laurie and Cal Bruns .

240 Nassau Road, Noordhoek, Cape Town (Down Avondrust Circle from Noordhoek Farm Village, 2^nd left)
Friday – (9am-8pm)
Saturday & Sunday – (9am-8pm)

You really need to get your hands on some of his pottery to truly appreciate the workmanship that goes into his art.

Come on over and say HI!