Betty Blandino, a pioneering British artist, left an indelible mark on the world of ceramics with her innovative approach to hand-building techniques. Born in London in 1927, Blandino's artistic journey began at Goldsmiths College, where she studied painting and pottery. It was here that she honed her skills and developed a deep appreciation for the sculptural potential of clay.
In 1973, Blandino made the bold decision to pursue pottery full-time, immersing herself in the transformative art form. Embracing the hand-building techniques of coiling and pinching, she deftly crafted thin-walled sculptural vessels that captivated viewers with their elegance and grace. Whether brushed with oxides and slips or left unglazed, each vessel bore the unmistakable imprint of Blandino's artistic vision.
Throughout her illustrious career, Blandino exhibited widely at prestigious institutions such as the Victoria & Albert Museum and Oxford's Ashmolean, garnering acclaim for her innovative approach to ceramics. Her works transcended traditional boundaries, blurring the line between art and craft with their sculptural complexity and refined aesthetic.
In addition to her artistic endeavours, Blandino was a prolific author, sharing her expertise with the world through publications such as "Coiled Pottery, Traditional and Contemporary Ways" and "The Figure in Fired Clay." Her insightful writings provided invaluable guidance to aspiring ceramicists, further cementing her legacy as a trailblazer in the field.