East Dorset Potters

Path and Inspiration

Mary first discovered pottery while attending Twynham School in Christchurch. Several decades later, inspired by a family of artists and designers, she set out to carve her own creative path and returned to what she fondly calls “mucking about with mud,” studying under tutor Charlotte Miller. Influenced by modernist masters such as Constantin Brancusi, Amedeo Modigliani, and Alberto Giacometti, Mary naturally gravitated towards sculptural forms. Her work is defined by a playful, humorous edge that brings a distinctive charm to her ceramics.

Process and Practice

Mary has explored a range of ceramic techniques, including wheel-throwing, but her practice is primarily rooted in hand-building. She works with slabs, pinching, moulds, and often takes a spontaneous, intuitive approach she describes as “slapping it on.” Favouring stoneware for its durability, she creates many pieces intended for outdoor display.