Meet the Maker: Rachael McDonald
My practice encompasses both wheel-thrown and hand-built stoneware and porcelain ceramics — functional vessels and sculptural objects alike. With motifs of hares, mushrooms, oak leaves and acorns, my work draws on the living rhythms of nature and the deep undercurrents of folklore and myth. Each piece — whether a mug, bowl, vase, spoon or decorative hare — is crafted with attention to form and surface, in pursuit of a sense of quiet narrative and meaningful detail.
Alongside clay, I work in pen, ink, watercolour and digital tools (notably Procreate) to produce illustrations that extend into prints, cards and other items. These graphic works share the same lyrical impulses as the ceramics — they are meditations on character, movement and the subtle interplay of story and symbol.
Alongside clay, I work in pen, ink, watercolour and digital tools (notably Procreate) to produce illustrations that extend into prints, cards and other items. These graphic works share the same lyrical impulses as the ceramics — they are meditations on character, movement and the subtle interplay of story and symbol.
The name 'The Fireside Dragon' was inspired by the idea that Dragons, mythologically fierce fire breathing creatures, are in fact gentle creatures wanting nothing more than to curl up on a rug by a roaring fire, have a nap and read a good book.
My Fireside Dragon would also, given the opportunity, happily fire the kiln, but I rely on electricity instead as it’s a little safer.
My Fireside Dragon would also, given the opportunity, happily fire the kiln, but I rely on electricity instead as it’s a little safer.
Mini Apothecary Bottles
|
Me and the pup
|
Hares
At the heart of my work is the hare — a figure that returns to me again and again. Whether evoked through the silky sweep of attentive ears, the powerful hind-legs of a creature built for running, or the alert, expressive eyes taking in its ancient British terrain — I aim to communicate the hare’s presence, energy and character. Even as I explore other creatures and botanical forms, I always find the hare calling me back.
Mushrooms
Inspired by the quintessential fairytale mushroom, the iconic fly agaric (Amanita muscaria), I celebrate the enchanting beauty of woodland folklore and the natural world. With its distinctive scarlet cap and white speckles and spots, this beloved mushroom has long captured the imaginations in storybooks and art. Its magical form appears throughout my work, bringing a touch of whimsy, wonder and timeless fairytale charm
At the heart of my work is the hare — a figure that returns to me again and again. Whether evoked through the silky sweep of attentive ears, the powerful hind-legs of a creature built for running, or the alert, expressive eyes taking in its ancient British terrain — I aim to communicate the hare’s presence, energy and character. Even as I explore other creatures and botanical forms, I always find the hare calling me back.
Mushrooms
Inspired by the quintessential fairytale mushroom, the iconic fly agaric (Amanita muscaria), I celebrate the enchanting beauty of woodland folklore and the natural world. With its distinctive scarlet cap and white speckles and spots, this beloved mushroom has long captured the imaginations in storybooks and art. Its magical form appears throughout my work, bringing a touch of whimsy, wonder and timeless fairytale charm
