Clay has many qualities. This is something I learnt when I started classes in Tonbridge, Kent almost thirty years ago. Clay gives flexibility to all potters to make the the types of work they produce. Examining the work of other potters keeps me exploring new methods and new shapes. I try not to make direct copies of other potters' work but their ideas push me to create new themes in my own work.

I've been tutoring for over 16 years in a variety of studios but now I only hold classes in my own workshop in Coleford Pottery, in Tonbridge. I've called it Coleford Pottery because our house is named Coleford House. My classes are small so that I'm able to give individual tuition. All aspects of clay construction are covered including handbuilding methods, wheel work and the many types of decorative techniques. I hope that I can give students the confidence to succeed in using their own creative skills to make their choice of ceramic items using the endless possibilities which clay offers.

My own work is mostly wheel thrown but I also make slab and coil pots. I make individual items which means that if I'm repeating a particular shape, like a set of bowls, these not identical but similar. I enjoy experimenting with all types of surface effects including using coloured slips, underglaze colours, glass and new glaze recipes. I like creating different textures by impressing, carving or applying thin layers of clay to make surface patterns. I'm always looking to increase my knowledge and improve my techniques. The last two years I have exhibited with the Kent Potters in the Art in Clay Festival at Hatfield House in August, and in the Maltings at Farnham, in November. If you look at the Gallery page you will see some of the work I make.

© 2010 Liz Stace