Andrea's new style of modelling

A FORMER model and beauty therapist from Heathfield is turning heads for another reason, her ceramics.

A FORMER model and beauty therapist from Heathfield is turning heads for another reason, her ceramics.

Andrea Crook, of Butlers Dene, Cross-in-Hand, was a trained beauty therapist but put that career on hold when she had a child. When her son, Alex, was a little older Andrea decided that she would like to go back to work.

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She said: 'When he (Alex] was three or four I needed a job, I loved making animals out of clay when I was at school and I realised I had a flair for it. I did night classes at Sharlands Pottery with Matthew Bayman. I learnt as much as I could and decided to leave after about two years because our styles were very different.

'I got a job at Hesketh Pottery Supplies in Lewes for six years and learnt even more because when working in a shop and having to supply everyone with an answer to their questions you have to know what you are talking about.'

When the owner of Hesketh Pottery, Christine Hesketh, decided to close the gallery Andrea thought the time might have come to branch out on her own. She said: 'I was very fortunate because a family friend, Marida Brinkworth, sponsored me to leave the shop and I spent a year finding out what I was most good at. I soon discovered that I loved making animals. I make hares and hounds, rabbits, mice, lizards and cats and they are quirky, amusing caricatures.'

Andrea makes her animals using Raku firing, an old Japanese style that creates an effect known as 'white crackle'. When Andrea was at St Georges Workshop in Waldron she noticed a showroom available. It is open at weekends from 11am-4pm. As well as animals, Andrea does a small range of pots, jugs, mugs and bowls. Prices start as little as 12.

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Kent County Council has recently approached Andrea to take part in an exhibition at Romney Marsh Craft Gallery in Lydd, Kent. Andrea also teaches privately so if you are interested and would like to know more about her ceramics call 07876 294865.

Pictured: Andrea Crook displays her work. L31043d

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