ALAN BOYLE

Born in Dublin in 1962, Alan still lives and works in Dublin city. In 1982 he completed a foundation course at the National College of Art and Design after which he studied graphic design at the College of Marketing and Design. In 1986 Alan qualified as a graphic designer. He is a member of Ceramics Ireland and was involved in the production of their magazine for many years.

In 1995, after working in advertising, he once again returned to NCAD where he did a course in ceramics under the tuition of Paul Martin. This led him to focus his creative talents on his own unique ceramic art. Alan's work mainly consists of collectable art pieces, and many of Alan's ideas come from his own imagination. Combining these ideas with his graphic design background and many other influences, which include ancient Irish art such as that found on the passage tombs of the Boyne Valley and Newgrange. The landscape and flora of Ireland also provide an abundance of inspiration. Other influences are the ancient cultures of the world; in particular Japan and Japanese wood block prints. Artists that have influenced him are Klimt, Dali, Durer and Patrick Scott, to name just a few.

More recently the concept of balance both visually and mentally is influencing his work and it is constantly evolving as he experiments with new techniques. Much of Alan's work is hand built. Alan's bowls are thrown on a wheel and, as with the hand built pieces, they are often carved with a variety of tools insuring each piece is unique.

Alan's philosophy is that ceramics are more than just visual but also tactile, and he encourages people top feel the forms and the textures of his work.

Alan has recently started exploring other materials such as bronze and finds this an exciting new development.