Roelof Uys, Lead Potter: Leach Studio: A Potter’s Challenge

Selected object: Bernard Leach, Stoneware Vase, c.1938.

“I was attracted to this vase’s form; its beautifully balanced proportions, its well–rounded belly and the subtle symmetry between the foot and rim.

This pot tells the story of our craft – you can see the traces of its origin and the process of its creation. The bare clay at the base reminds us that it comes from the earth and the barely visible throwing lines left by the potter’s hand, obscured by the glaze, tell us that the maker understands the language. They know how to work with the variables of the firing and respect the outcome.

 This piece gave me a blank canvas; a good form to explore without copying it. I could experiment with different finishes and bring in elements of my own methods of expression, deconstruct it, and use the various elements to create something new yet still familiar – like an old memory. I could use the shape of the rim for a bowl or the sharp cut on the foot as a line to frame an area of decoration.

 The possibilities for expression seemed endless and I hope the results of my effort is a testament to the idea of ‘heart, head and hands’.”

Explore Roelof’s Exhibition work below

About Roelof

Bernard Leach, Stoneware Vase, c.1938. On loan: The Dartington Hall Trust. Location: Entrance Gallery Cases

Bottle Green : RUEX05
£145.00
Only 1 available
Bottle Vase : RUEX02
£265.00
Bottle Vase : RUEX04
£175.00
Bottle Vase : RUEX08
£175.00
Only 1 available
Bowl : RUEX11
£75.00
Only 1 available
Extra Large Bowl : RUEX20
£245.00
Only 1 available
Bottle Vase : RUEX06
£155.00
Bottle Vase : RUEX01
£265.00
Only 1 available
Bottle Vase : RUEX03
£175.00
Only 1 available
Bottle Vase : RUEX07
£145.00
Large Bowl : RUEX17
£175.00
Only 1 available
Large Shallow Bowl : RUEX25
£345.00
Only 1 available