Frances Clifford

An investigation of containment based on the exploration of the vessel as an
artform using the medium of forged steel and the craft of blacksmithing. The
concept of containment and the idea of a vessel is explored by reference to art
theory, ideas from psychology, the work of vessel makers and contemporary
artists. The study is manifested in Ambit a work consisting of seven objects
made from forged steel that are incapable of physically containing any sub-
stance, but which can still contain a symbolic meaning. Ultimately, the conclu-
sion of the investigation prompts the question as to whether the concept of a
vessel can be reduced to an imaginary vessel and whether even an imaginary
vessel can be used to contain a meaning?