Hand Built Slab Bottle Vase

Born in Brixham, South Devon. Son of Alan Brough & Sheila Brough.

 

I started my pottery Journey in my fathers studio, working weekends for pocket money. My father, Alan Brough remains a strong influence. He was an innovator. My mother was also a professional artist and I believe my creativity was very influenced by her.

 

My formal studies were at Camborne Technical College under William Marshall (of Leach Pottery fame) Bill was an incredible potter and craftsman who gave his knowledge very generously. Qualified with a distinction diploma in ceramics.

Large scale commissions followed after graduating including two architectural pieces for the Dorrien-Smiths on Tresco, Isles of Scilly. I now have my studio in Lelant, West cornwall. The ocean is an enduring influence on my work, we’re blessed with a beautiful coastline. I work with local materials and fire in both electric and flame kilns. An enduring influence stylistically is the country slipware tradition of the UK and Portugal. I studied Portuguese slipware and have been collecting pieces for many years. The honesty and integrity of it always moves me.

 

I work exclusively on a traditional Leach style kick wheel, I like the rhythm and control it brings to throwing. My more painterly, decorated work allows me to change disciplines in the studio. I immerse myself in fine detail and design lead work. My second style is more respectful of The Leach tradition that I studied at college, using traditional glaze recipes often including the use of wood ash. Occasionally I do sculptural work, the change of direction is refreshing and inspirational. Many of my ideas come from our daily walks on the coast, the rock pools and amazing granite forms/colours are a constant source of ideas.
 

  

Hand Built Slab Bottle Vase with Wax Resist Decoration over
Tenmoku and Nuka Glaze

23x16x18cm approx.