John Mackenzie

John completed a degree in ceramics at Harrow University in 2001; during his studies he developed a passion for wood fired ceramics and kiln building, becoming particularly interested in ancient Chinese glazes and how these interact with the ‘fly ash’ and embers which are so prominent when firing an anagama kiln. 

Born and raised in Cornwall, John has always had a close affinity to the sea and rugged coastline of West Penwith.

“The forms I make are a direct response to my environment; I aim to make work which intimately communicates the elemental processes that they have been through.

My earliest memory of working with clay was in primary school where I discovered a media which has fascinated me ever since. Much later whilst doing a degree in ceramics at Harrow University I became intrigued by wood-fired ceramics and kiln building. I have since built several wood-fired kilns and have since been exploring the unique colours, surfaces and effects which can only be achieved with this process.

In 2020 I built a 140 cubic foot anagama (cave) kiln which is fired with offcuts of wood from a local sawmill.  The kiln is fired for around 50 hours and needs constant attention to build the temperature to above 1300 degrees centigrade. At this temperature the ash from the wood melts to form a glaze. I explore and accentuate these protracted and extreme firings by developing my own clays, glazes and slips which respond to the flame, ember, and ash. I’m fascinated by how the burning wood can imprint its energy onto the clay and how varying the atmosphere of the kiln can maximise the kiln’s potential. I aim to create vessels which intimately communicate the elemental processes that they have been through.”

Website - jmmackenzie.co.uk Instagram - @jmackenzieceramics