Here's a brief introduction to me and my pottery journey. 

My career took me from working as a designer in a local babywear factory to becoming a self employed illustrator once my children were born. I have always loved all things arty and was lucky enough to have fallen into a career that allowed me to indulge this desire to create.

A few years ago myself and a couple of friends attended a weekly pottery class at Exeter College and a new obsession was born. I stopped the classes after several terms with a view to carrying on teaching myself and experimenting with design and form. I must admit, for a couple of years I dabbled very infrequently with pottery despite buying myself an electric wheel during covid (along with half the country I think). More recently however I have really got the bug for hand building and have developed more of a style - basically contemporary, quirky and, very often, naughtily naked character pieces.

Some things that have spurred me on in my ceramic making (and which I'd recommend anyone else considering if they are new to pottery) are: 

Finding local groups or people with whom I could exchange ideas and learn. Once a month a group meets in Crediton for exactly this purpose

Joining the Westcountry Potters Association. Through this group I have met fellow potters, attended workshops and demonstrations and found out about fairs and markets I wouldn't otherwise necessarily have had access to.

Utilising workshops and other teaching events which are always a great source of information. I spent a few days in Stoke on Trent attending a workshop by Mark Smith which was so inspiring for me. I then went with my friend (and fellow potter) Gill to do a 3 day throwing course at the fabulous Leach Pottery, St. Ives. A recent demo by Russell Martin was also so informative. You can always pick up something from these opportunities - from ways to use tools differently to new mediums with which to decorate pieces to how to manage your business.

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Things are hotting up this year. I have several markets and fairs booked and am busy trying to ensure I have enough pieces to take along and sell. I'm both excited and nervous about what this summer will bring. I'm hoping to meet lots of new customers and see many pieces go to new homes (fingers crossed). Maybe I'll see you at one of them?