Ian Smedley ceramic artist and studio potter.
My sculptures are hand-built using coiling and slab techniques. In contrast, I also create a small quantity of thrown domestic ware, both thrown and hand-built functional vessels, as well as purely decorative pieces.
Latest News – The studio has closed as we need more space. We will be looking for new premises but are taking some time off first to go travelling first.
Follow on Instagram for updates!
My Process
I fire my pottery to stoneware temperatures. I Raku fire other pieces using an outdoor kiln. The Raku process is very quick. I first heat the pots to a cherry red glow. I take them out of the kiln with tongues and place the red-hot pots into a metal bin filled with combustible sawdust and paper. The material catches fire, and I seal the lid to prevent air from entering. Next the reduction process occurs, transforming the metal oxides on the pieces into a stunning array of fabulous colours. Finally the fired pots are then washed and scrubbed clean, only then is the surface revealed. Each Raku piece is unique.
Learn Pottery with Ian Smedley Ceramic Artist
It was a pleasure teaching beginners throwing over the past years. It is very rewarding see their excitement when they manage to produce several pots during a workshop.
I look forward to new bigger workshops once we find our new studio.
See more work and follow on Instagram
Please have a look at Ian Smedley Ceramic Artists Instagram feed and follow to see our adventures around the world.
