With a background in Architecture, Icelandic ceramicist Björk Haraldsdóttir's work is sculptural, built from stoneware clay slabs and takes its influence form Architecture, Norse craft, literature and mythology and the natural environment. Her work is characterised by strong sculptural forms draped with geometrical and monochromatic patterns. The titles of the pieces often reflect what is behind the raw clay and careful patterning. At the core of the work is a conversation between three-dimensional form and two-dimensional pattern. Ambiguity is created by placing a rigid geometric pattern on an organic form, or vice versa, altering perception of the piece so sometimes they appear almost and subtly off kilter.Form and pattern are individually and equally important. The ‘grain’ of the pattern vastly alters the perception of a piece, and two superficially similar forms will appear unrelated when rendered with different patterns. The patterns are meticulously drawn onto the surface of the work after careful coats of slip. The slip is then removed in part, creating the contrasting monochrome pattern. The scrape marks are visible, and the surface is a plane of shallow relief, much like a tapestry. The tactile nature of these pieces is important – they invite touch, in the same way as a draped cloth might.Björk is drawn to monochrome. It could be seen as a reflection of the monochromatic palette of the Icelandic landscape, particularly in winter. She thinks of her work as reflective of that landscape, with black lava peeking out from beneath snow covered planes. However, that is an entirely subconscious outcome. Her decorative process simply suits monochrome, and the limited palette seems to strike the right balance between form and pattern.