Art / Ceramics
Montpelier Potters: new ceramics co-working space opens its doors
Bristol’s ceramics renaissance shows no sign of abating. The latest studio to be established is the Montpelier Potters Co-Working Space, which is based at the new workspace development, Rennisons Yard.
Currently home to five potters of varying levels of experience but sharing “a common commitment to working together and a passion for clay”, the group is looking for one more half-time ceramicist to join them.
Former architect John Waldron is the enthusiastic founder of Montpelier Potters. “Bristol seems to have gone pottery mad!” he admits.
“When I retired as an architect I went back to pottery classes after a break of over 30 years and quickly got bitten by the bug. Working with clay was not exactly compatible with living in an apartment, so when I heard about the new studios in Rennisons Yard being offered as shells I decided to put my savings to creative use and forgo the retirement cruises.
“After three months of fit-out, including numerous sheets of plywood for the benching and storage, we moved in at the beginning of the year.
“I have been really fortunate in finding a small group of more experienced potters to share the studio: they are inspiring company, and we have just celebrated firing our first batch of pots.”
The group is hosting a special open event on March 17 during which visitors and budding ceramicists can be shown around the space.
Montpelier Potters are at Studio E, Rennisons Yard, 24 Picton Lane. Visitors are welcome to the open event on March 17 at 4-6pm, or by appointment (contact John Waldron [email protected]).
All photos: David Royce
Read next:
- Pottery School and studio to open in former pub
- New artist-led community pottery studio
- MAKE Bristol launch new home for ceramics and creative events in the heart of Bedminster
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