Autumn pumpkins and spooky ghosts

I love this time of year. As the leaves turn from vibrant greens to warm shades of red, orange, and gold, I get inspired to make pieces that reference this magical time of year.

I enjoy sculpting organic forms which is why one of my favourite things to make is ceramic pumpkins. They feel great in the hand and look wonderful as a collection in front of the fireplace.

The glazes I choose are reactive, this makes not just the form but the finish of each piece completely unique. This year I have embraced the colours of fallen leaves for my larger pumpkins.

I'm also a big fan of making miniature pottery. Small trinkets and knick-knacks to add to an eclectic collection. Which is why I also make small scale pumpkins that measure only 2.5cm tall.

I used some of the same glazes as the larger pumpkins and as a fun alternative glazes that have speckled colours in them.

It wouldn't be autumn without halloween and all things spooky! Although I truly believe (and judging by my ever expanding collection) that a ghost is not just for halloween. I display my own collection (by lots of different makers) all year round.

This year I explored the functional ghost - one that can be used as a tealight/mini light holder or an incense cone burner - where you see smoke come through the eyes!

I tried out crackle glaze and rubbed in inks. Black, green and a very subtle neon pink.

Returning to miniatures, my favourite thing to make has been the collection of mini ghosts, great to hide in small crevices of the home - this could make for a fun halloween game to locate the ghosts!