Unveiling the Art of Pottery: Stoke-on-Trent's Shining Star on BBC's 'Great Pottery Throw Down'
By Lee Blakeman
BBC Radio Stoke
In a world where the art of making things is often overlooked, BBC's 'Great Pottery Throw Down' shines a spotlight on the heart of Stoke-on-Trent's pottery industry. With its ninth season underway, the show not only captivates audiences but also emphasizes the profound value of craftsmanship and creativity.
The series, filmed at the iconic Gladstone Pottery in Longton, brings together 12 talented potters who are challenged to create unique pieces each week. Among the judges is the renowned ceramicist Keith Brymer-Jones, who believes the show beautifully encapsulates the essence of Stoke-on-Trent's pottery heritage.
"It's all about transforming a simple bag of clay into something extraordinary," Brymer-Jones enthuses. "That's what Stoke is all about: crafting beautiful, functional art from the earth's raw materials."
The show's popularity has been nothing short of astonishing, according to Brymer-Jones. "I'm moved to tears by the ninth series," he shares. "People are genuinely excited and anticipate the show's warmth and comfort, especially during the colder months. They connect with the potters and their creations, feeling a sense of pride and investment in their handmade masterpieces."
However, the judging process is not without its challenges. Brymer-Jones and his fellow judge, Rich Miller, find themselves in a difficult position each year. "Deciding who to eliminate becomes increasingly challenging," Brymer-Jones admits. "But we always rely on the technical expertise of pottery and ceramics. It's a tough call, and you'll witness the intensity throughout the series, especially this year."
One of the show's standout moments is the introduction of the "bucket of doom," a technical challenge where potters must create multiple pieces, and Brymer-Jones decides which ones are worthy of staying. This unique test of skill and creativity has its roots in Brymer-Jones' own training days, where he had to throw 100 pieces of clay before being allowed to leave the pottery, emphasizing the importance of discipline and quality.
The current series also features a local connection through contestant Bill Rolls, a 33-year-old autistic individual who runs a ceramics business in Herefordshire and volunteers as a teaching assistant. In the opening show, Rolls' creative soup sets, inspired by his perfect winter evenings, impressed the judges. His biscuit-themed bowls, in particular, caught the eye of Brymer-Jones, who praised Rolls' ability to express himself through the art of pottery.
"Pottery is an incredible way for someone like Bill, who is autistic, to channel their creativity and emotions," Brymer-Jones said. "He's a true artist, and his creations are truly remarkable."
As the series progresses, viewers can expect to witness the potters' growth, the challenges they face, and the emotional connections they forge with their creations. 'Great Pottery Throw Down' not only entertains but also educates, reminding us of the beauty and value of handmade crafts in a world that often celebrates mass production. So, tune in and discover the magic of Stoke-on-Trent's pottery scene!
