Pottery Connects Us

I have been busy working with 12 other local ceramicists, the “Totnes Potters”, to exhibit our pots at Birdwood House Gallery in October. For me, the exhibition illustrated not only the diversity of ceramics in form, scale and surface but also the benefits of friendship forged through a shared goal. 

Totnes Potters (left to right) David Parsons, Julia Toy, Alys Brooker, Alison Hannah, Janice Tall, Elizabeth Smith, Caroline Aisher, Amanda Harvey, Nikki Smith, Paula Wilson, Lucy Bell, Verran Townsend, Jess Heard

We 13 potters met over 5 years ago whilst members or teachers at Richenda McGregor’s Studio 45 in Dartington Hall Trust.  As an incubator space encouraging the growth of creative skills in ceramics and the arts, Studio 45 was the foundation for many who then went on to setup their own studios, to teach, mentor and exhibit.  The social connection initiated there and as it is now as the entity that is “Totnes Potters” has evolved into a friendship characterised by support, encouragement, inspiration and challenge.  

Seeking to work towards a common goal such as the exhibition at Birdwood House brought added value in the form of life-long learning. A strong sense of purpose has actively enabled us to develop relationships that are both fruitful and fun.  I highly recommend forming your own creative entity – watch it grow and enjoy the benefits of collective togetherness.

Three pots of mine with glazes formulated at the studio.

This diverse range of work from the Totnes Potters  can be viewed from their website www.totnespotters.co.uk or get in touch with them by email at totnespotters@gmail.com.