After sculpting in wax and clay for a number of years it became a challenge to capture and recreate the sensuality and appeal of human curves in thrown clay. Gradually I was drawn into developing my own glazes and fascinated by its endless variations. The sequence of throwing, turning, biscuit firing, glazing, glaze firing and waiting for the kiln to cool off has since grown from hobby into a fulltime profession.

I went to school in France , to university in Holland and worked subsequently in England , France and since 1985 in the Netherlands .

Kees Agterberg taught me to how to use the wheel in Utrecht in 1995. Later I had the benefit of seminars and teaching by Arne Åse, Peter Lane and Bryan Trueman. In 1998 I was taught by Gordon Cook at Westdean College ( Sussex , UK ).

At this moment I essentially work with porcelain, generally functional. Much of my work is inspired by traditional forms both thrown and hand built, from Japan and Korea . I admire much of the contemporary porcelain that is being made in Scandinavia .

Ceramics have married pleasant shapes, colors and textures for thousands of years in functional objects. What I enjoy most is to see our customers appreciate the simple pleasure in using such objects.  

Zeist, January 2006

Diederik Heyning