I originally studied ceramics under Polly Shiraishi, a pupil of Bernard Leach in St.Ives. The creation of both functional pots and creative ceramics by bringing together the primeval elements of earth, water and fire has always fascinated me.

With the exception of my wall plaques, which are cast from our hand made moulds, all my ceramics are unique, individually hand-thrown pieces, fired and decorated here in my studio. I use a number of different types of clay, from earthenware to a coarse, heavily grogged stoneware. After initial bisque firing, I employ various techniques using oxides, wood ash and my own recipe glazes to create a range of decorative effects, where I try to reflect the colours and textures of the cliffs, moss-covered granite, sand and sea of our local landscape. I also make pieces using a wax-resist technique to create early celtic motifs and patterns burnt into an ironstone clay, and a variety of small bud vases, tea lights and incense burners.

As an alternative to my own decorated ceramics, I use a fine, white earthenware clay that fires at a high temperature to make blank vases and chalices, which John then decorates with underglaze paints. Working entirely by hand, he turns these blank pieces into highly individual coloured ceramics using intricate celtic knotwork and lettering, derived from celtic manuscripts and carved stonework that date back over 1,300 years.