Exploring the Tactile Art of Björk Haraldsdóttir
Dorset-based Icelandic ceramic artist Björk Haraldsdóttir makes strong sculptural forms on which she drapes monochromatic geometric patterns. At the core of this work is a conversation between three-dimensional form and two-dimensional pattern. She creates ambiguity in her work by placing a rigid geometric pattern on an organic form, or vice versa, altering our perception of the piece in subtle and fascinating ways.
Born and raised in Iceland, Björk Haraldsdóttir trained and worked as an architect for over twenty years before she began to make ceramics. During this time she worked for renowned architects including Richard Rogers. At first she made ceramics as an antidote for the many creative constraints placed on an architect, seeing it as ‘small architecture with no brief and no client’. In 2011 she made the switch to work professionally as a ceramic artist, constantly developing her ideas, pushing her work further, becoming more and more interesting and exciting.
What she calls her ‘pattern journey’ began in references to old textile work and stitching patterns from Iceland and the Nordic Culture. Over time this has developed into patterns inspired by ideas and images she comes across in nature and daily life.
‘The basic premise of “draped” pattern over architectural form is straightforward but the range of expression it allows is vast’ explained Björk. ‘I feel I am still growing into an understanding of those possibilities and, while there is much more to explore, I intend to continue to produce work that is recognisable as part of a continual series. The work changes subtly and incrementally with every firing and every exhibition so I don’t expect work in the future to look like it did in the past. I will continue the process of producing well-conceived and well-executed work that hopefully brings joy.’
Björk is a member of the Craft Potters Association and has shown her work widely across England including at the Royal Academy Summer Exhibition, selected by Grayson Perry. This is her first solo show at Sladers Yard.
Björk Haraldsdóttir ceramics is at Sladers Yard until 13 September 2025
Sladers Yard, West Bay Bridport Dorset DT6 4EL
Open: Mon to Sat 10 – 4pm. All work can be viewed www.sladersyard.co.uk
t: 01308 459511. e: gallery@sladersyard.co.uk
