Lichen Rocks

Introducing the Lichen Rock series — a body of work inspired by the striking orange lichen that clings to rocks along the Tasmanian coast. This vivid growth, found where land meets sea, has long fascinated me for both its colour and its resilience. Lichen is not one organism but a symbiotic partnership between fungus and alga, working together in harmony to thrive in the most rugged and weathered environments. It is a quiet, enduring presence on the coastline, and through this series I wanted to honour its beauty, texture, and symbolic strength.

Each piece in the Lichen series is wheel thrown or hand built in using a white clay, either with texture or a smooth clay — chosen for their refined yet tactile qualities that allow the surface decoration to sing depending on the form.

Once formed, the vessels are carefully hand painted using a painterly, watercolour-inspired technique that layers stains, medium, chalk, and carving. This approach allows me to capture the subtle depth of the lichen’s surface, where vibrant orange blooms sit against earthy greys and delicate textures. The hand-painted decoration brings a sense of movement and life, echoing the way lichen spreads across stone in organic, unpredictable patterns.

Inside, a green wash sits beneath a clear gloss glaze, reminiscent of the ocean — a quiet reminder of the water’s constant presence against the rocky shore. The contrast between the vivid, textured exterior and the serene, glassy interior mirrors the balance between land and sea, strength and delicacy.

Every vessel in this series is unique, carrying the marks of handwork and the individuality of the glazing process. Together, they form a collection that celebrates both the fine details of the Tasmanian coastline and the enduring partnerships within nature itself. These pieces are not only functional objects but also hold the story of place — evoking the rugged beauty of Tasmania and offering a connection to the natural world.