Most of Paul Smith’s ceramic sculptures are unique, hand-built one-offs.  Using a system of rods developed by Ian Gregory he freely builds the figures, removing the supports once the clay can withstand its own weight.

He has adapted Ian’s technique here by incorporating a solid “back-iron” support.
These working methods allow for free and spontaneous variations on a particular theme, each piece being subtly different from its predecessor.

He sponge-decorates his work with oxides, stains and glazes.  Firing is to stoneware at 1250 degrees for outdoor pieces.  All sculptures are individually signed and dated.

He also produces a few press-moulded sculptures in limited editions of 24.