StJohn Trundle

I make functional pots in stoneware clay, thrown on a momentum wheel. I enjoy all aspects of the ceramic process from handling clay, creation of glazes, and control of the fire.
I make my glazes from raw materials, some of which are ‘found’ such as wood-ash, stone and clay. They have names like Celedon, Nuka, Chun, Shino and Tenmoku - established by ancient Eastern potters, handed down and evolved through the ages. They are very difficult to capture. In the firing they can be fluid and so give highlights and textures, consequently I apply marks or ridges to encourage this.
I 'reduction' fire the pots in a woodfired kiln to a temperature of 1300°C, this is an exciting challenge, full of jeopardy and serendipity. The results can be wonderful, with many gifts from the kiln, including the bare clay being enhanced by a rich toasted appearance and the fly ash, carried by the flame, uniquely interacting with the glazes.
I draw inspiration from the local South Downs landscape and the pots echoing traditional forms. I also hope it is evident that the clay was once a soft and pliable material, with a distinct feel of the potter’s hand.