b. 1962, United Kingdom
Carolyn Tripp graduated from Camberwell Collage of arts in 1998 with a degree in ceramics. Whilst raising her family Carolyn taught ceramics within a mental health setting and became lead tutor for Studio 306 Collective an organisation that supports mental health recovery through creativity. In 2018 Carolyn returned to her own practice and currently works out of a studio at Wimbledon Arts Studios in South London.
On first observation Carolyn’s work sits within the blue and white ceramic tradition with the surface pattern and recurring curves, necks and bellies all thrown in porcelain. Up close the jewel like surface reveals the hidden visual diary that she collects. Overheard phrases, lyrics, flowers, patterns and memory, are recorded in photography and drawings, leading to the creation of sheets of story. Printed onto paper and then torn or cut to disguise them (so that she retains ownership and privacy of some very personal memories,) each piece is placed individually onto the surface of the vessel. This creates a new “story” each time, full of refences that may connect with the viewer, so sparking imagination and memory.
In 2020 Carolyn was selected for the Hot House programme with the Crafts Council and she has gone on to show her work in galleries throughout the UK as well as selling work overseas. Her recent exhibitions include The Whitehouse Gallery in Scotland, Future Icons Selects for London Craft Week at Barge House Oxox Tower Wharf, and the Spring Exhibition at the Bevere Gallery. Carolyn has completed several commissions including a series of works for the Norwegian Cruises newest ships Prima, Viva and Aqua and she is also a trustee of Studio 306 Collective. Carolyn was a trustee of London Potters Charity from 2019-2024.
Carolyn Tripp has been selected for the Young Masters 'for the love of art history' open call 2025.