News
WPA holds successful online AGM
Over 50 members attended a lively online AGM on Sunday 23rd May. Having been forced to cancel the AGM in 2020 we experimented with an online meeting in 2021 using the experience gained through our successful series of online demonstrations. The meeting reviewed our work over the past year and agreed that our membership fees would remain unchanged for a…
Exciting plans for the second half of 2021
Whilst it is still unclear exactly when we will be able to organise in person events and what form they may take, we have tried to include a mix of activities for the second half of the year. We have already published details of our Potters’ Markets in Exeter and Tavistock, and our stand at the Craft Festival in Bovey…
Tavistock Potters’ Market Fully Booked
Thank you to everyone who has applied for a table at our Potters’ Markets. The Tavistock market is now also fully booked with a waiting list. Sorry if you have missed out this year, but Covid restrictions have limited the number of tables we can book. Hopefully we will have greater capacity in future.
“Floral Feast” 18th May – 12th June
Work by ceramicist Liz Watts and painter Susan Thomson. Their combined work “celebrates the coming of summer in a confectionary of colour, surrounded by birds and flowers as we regain our freedom to meet and roam.” Ilminster Arts Centre, 35 East Street, Ilminster, Somerset TA19 0AN (check website for days open)
Artwey Marquee – Dorset Arts Weeks 23 – 31 May 2021
WPA member Babs Kirkby, a member of Artwey, will be exhibiting in their huge marquee at Nothe Fort, Barrack Road, Weymouth DT4 8UD, from the 22nd to 31st May between 10.30am and 4.00pm as part of this year’s Dorset Arts Weeks.
Open studio – Dorset Art Week 22nd of May to the 6th of June
Tiffany Scull will be exhibiting during this year’s Dorset Art Weeks On show will be an extensive selection of her sgraffito ceramics including a new and exciting tropical themed collection she has created especially for opening her studio. This is a great opportunity to talk to her about her journey, thoughts and how she designs and makes her unique and…
Jim Robison online demonstration now available to view on his website
In March we were fortunate to have an online demonstration by renowned maker Jim Robison from his studio in Holmfirth. We are pleased to report that you can now view the video on that demonstration on Jim’s website at this link.
John Pollex Demonstration
Our colleagues from the Cornwall Ceramics and Glass Group (CCGG) kindly extended an invitation to an exclusive online demonstration from renowned slipware potter John Pollex on Thursday 29th April. “Never pick up what you can’t put down.” Working with SWE white earthenware, John shared his tips for creating bottles, jugs and plates and for working in a studio. In the…
Chris Bramble demonstration
Over 60 members were treated to an excellent masterclass combining throwing and modelling on Saturday 1st May. Everyone was most appreciative of Chris’s skill and knowledge. A full write-up will appear in the July/August issue of our magazine.
Leach Pottery Specialist Skills Course
There are currently 2 spaces available on this specialist course: How to Make a Teapot 11 – 15 October 2021. 1 – 5 November 2021. For further details and to book go to Leach Pottery
Vandlys Galleri exhibits Helen Rondell’s Raku at Exeter’s Quay
These wonderful works by Helen Rondell feature alongside a painting by Karen Gimlinge. Now reopen, Vandlys Galleri is a new gallery featuring painters, studio ceramics and printmakers alongside glass and sculpture. Their premises on the Quay is in a beautiful location to soak up the atmosphere of this vibrant space in the heart of Exeter. Rosemary McGarr’s work are…
WPA exhibition at The Devon Guild opens to visitors
We are pleased that with the reopening of The Devon Guild in Bovey Tracey on Wednesday 14th April you can now go and view the WPA exhibition in the Riverside Gallery. Other work by WPA members is available to purchase in the shop. Please check the website for more details.
Brendan Hesmondhalgh demonstrates figurative sculpture
On Saturday 10th April, over 90 Westcountry Potters Members attended Brendan’s excellent demonstration of his methods and techniques in creating his sculptures. Mainly working in Ashraf Hanna clay, he builds large figurative pieces based on mainly animal forms. During the event, Brendan demonstrated the steps towards the creation of a life-size lurcher. A range of advice and tips learned from…
WPA celebrates 1001 followers…
Established in 1993, WPA has 400 members with the aim of connecting ceramicists throughout the South West. All members share an interest in handmade pottery or ceramic sculpture. With 1001 instagram followers online, the WPA journey continues to extend to potters far and wide. The very first image posted on instagram in 2016 featured the work of guest potter Richard…
Renowned sculptor Jim Robison inspires fellow ceramicists
Sculptor, ceramicist and author, Jim Robison shared his inspiration and joy with WPA members. As a committed teacher with a passion for ceramics his demonstration on Saturday 6th March provided members with an insight into his influence, history and practice. Click here to view his full gallery of work. Many more members have gained from the opportunity to connect with…
WPA Members Exhibition – Devon Guild of Craftsmen
Westcountry Potters Members are exhibiting at the Devon Guild of Craftsmen. To 9 May, Riverside Gallery (online only until week beginning 12 April).
DCPG Open Day Success
Westcountry Potters Association members join fellow potters from the Dacorum and Chiltern Potters Guild at their very first virtual Open Day on Saturday 13th March. A truly international feel to the day, potters enjoyed arts discussion, expert insights and studio tours. The DCPG team hosted their annual POD (Potters Open Day) online and managed the technical challenge to dip in…
Introducing our brand new website
Welcome to the brand new website of the Westcountry Potters Association. A new look, improved functionality and features that enrich and enhance user experience aims to provide members and non-members with a dynamic and engaging experience. We welcome your feedback and invite you to e-mail the committee with your views on the new site.