We are excited to present this exhibition featuring two bodies of work made by Roelof Uys, Lead Potter at the Leach Pottery; one collection created in Japan during his 2022 Mashiko Residency, and a series of pots made in St Ives in 2023 as his creative response to this experience and work.

Roelof was a Guest Artist on the Mashiko Museum Residency Programme from 2 October to 30 November 2022, the prestigious Mashiko Pottery being the home of Leach Pottery co-founder Shoji Hamada.

Alongside work created in Japan as part of this Residency is a collection of pots made in St Ives in 2023 as his creative response to this experience. A few seasons on, Roelof has distilled his learning of the traditions he was introduced in Japan, and has incorporated elements of those techniques into this new work. The two bodies of work are complementary but feature interesting contrasts which indicate shifts in Roelof’s creative practice as a result of the Residency.

The exhibition features a range of functional pots, including yunomis, tea ware, teapots, lidded jars, vases, plates, bowls and mugs. Using an array of decorative techniques, including pressing, embossing, incising and stamping, Roelof’s pots have brilliant depth and uniquely textural finishes. Characterful forms in combination with glazes in a traditional Japanese style make for highly individual and striking pots.

Roelof studied Fine Art at East London Technical College, South Africa and founded his first ceramics studio in Limpopo Province in 1992, before moving to St Ives in autumn 1999 where he worked as a Studio Potter at the Gaolyard Studios founded by Leach apprentice John Bedding. Roelof took up his role as Lead Potter at the Leach Pottery in 2013. He oversees the design and production of the Leach Standard Ware and supervises the training of apprentices and volunteers in the workshop, as well continuing to make and develop his own work.

The exhibition runs in the Leach Pottery Shop.
All works for sale.