Current Work

I produce thrown stoneware and porcelain - mainly functional including tableware, some simply to be enjoyed. My work is on traditional lines, but the element of adding something to each piece through individual style is most important to me. In glazing, I favour a simplistic approach to decoration, allowing the movement within the glaze during firing to create its own unique complexities and irregularities of pattern. My overall aim is for the enduring nature of fired clay to be reflected as a lasting source of pleasure to the owner.

Work generally available from:

The Cat’s Moustache, Creetown, Dumfries & Galloway
Oberon Art, Burnham, Buckinghamshire
The Atholl Gallery, Dunkeld, Perthshire

Private tuition is available (also with Mary Kershaw) for a maximum of 4 persons (beginners to intermediate) in ceramic sculpture, modelling, throwing on the wheel. Full details are available on our website.  

Read Bob's Perspective on Ceramics South East 2007.

Technical Information

All firing is in oxidation, in a top-loading electric kiln. Thrown work is fired to Cone 9 and conventionally glazed over various underglaze techniques. I develop and make all my own glazes. As a professional courtesy I acknowledge the source of original recipes, but do not disclose modifications or additions to those recipes.

History

Originally working in a supporting role as technician, glaze chemist and administrator/facilitator, I moved forward developed my throwing skills, adding the new dimension of studio pottery to our joint work. I am also responsible for the original construction and ongoing maintenance/development of our website. Together we are the founders and sole members of The Robert James Studio, formed in 1997. To pre-empt the frequent question, the name comes from Bob's two Christian names.

Have been providing private tuition since 1999.