INSTAGRAM @marygladstonepottery

I have always had a desire to be creative, and am interested in design, particularly garden design. My interest in pottery started in Spring 2016 following a short bespoke pottery throwing course in Glasgow with my youngest daughter. Soon after an outbuilding was converted to a pottery studio.

I have been experimenting with different clays and initially used commercial glazes. More recently I have made my own glazes in bulk which allows for dipping of vessels. Much time needs to be spent testing glazes and firing cycles prior to making a large batch to avoid waste and to create the desired effect.

Throwing (making pots on a wheel) has been frustrating, however repeated practice has resulted in some improvement. I greatly enjoy the hand eye coordination. Centering the clay on the wheel head is tricky but vital.

Following a glazing course at West Dean in 2018 and advice from a local potter I became aware of firing and glazing possibilities using a gas fired kiln. This can allow for firing in a reduced oxygen chamber. It is known as reduction firing and can create interesting effects. In 2019 I purchased a secondhand reconditioned gas kiln. Firing involves nine hours plus of tweaking gas supply and oxygen intake. Presently I am experimenting and to date have had mixed results .

In both 2020 and 2021 The World of Interiors included a jug and slipware bowl of mine. I welcome enquiries about commissions and regularly undertake such work.

Pottery studio visits and viewing of stock are welcome by prior arrangement.

Address - Craichlaw House, Kirkcowan, Newton Stewart, DG8 0DQ. Telephone - 01671 830208