Presentation and demonstration by Russell Martin. Sunday 18th May 2025 Puriton Village Hall

Russell and his wife Suzi brought a number of his stunningly decorated pots with them. He gave us a very detailed and well presented demonstration of how he makes the forms. He then showed us how he decorates them with his delightful scenes reflecting Cornish folk traditions and legends often involving mermaids or sailors. He does this by applying black slip and then meticulously removing sections using the sgraffito technique.

In his presentation prior to the demonstration Russell talked about his background in studying illustration and especially lino cut printing and about his years as an art teacher in Yorkshire before his relatively recent move to becoming a professional potter. He gave us lots of helpful advice over pottery techniques and about setting up a successful pottery studio and business.

The whole day was very much appreciated by members present.