Mary Cutchee

Based in Totnes, I make “modern traditional” pots using Devon clay that I dig and prepare myself: the red clay comes from Dartington and the white clay comes from Newton Abbot. After forming the pot on the wheel or by hand, I decorate it with traditional Devon Slipware motifs of birds, lettering and patterns using sliptrailing or sgraffito methods. My love of nature and birds informs my designs, and each pot is unique.

After bisque firing, I apply a honey glaze for shades of brown, or a transparent glaze to allow painted colours to show. The final firing reaches 1220c making the pots ovenproof, dishwasher and microwave safe. My pottery is functional and I hope that it gives as much pleasure to those who use it as I get from making it.

I received a BA from St Martin’s School of Art, London in 1980 and have exhibited in England, Europe and North America. I’ve taught pottery in schools and colleges in Ireland, Canada and the UK. I spent the last 10 years as potter-in-residence at The Cider Press Centre at Dartington.

I’m a member of The Heritage Crafts Association and Make Southwest.

I am happy to undertake commissions and can be contacted at marydigsclay@gmail.com