Chris Payne Ceramics Home Page

I originally took up ceramics on an amateur basis and, very quickly, found myself totally ‘hooked’. However, I always felt that the limits in both time and working space inhibited my creativity.

I now have the freedom of a studio in which to work for as long and as often as I want, and have been able to develop new ideas, using my love of form to create more sculptural work. At the same time, I have been able to experiment with varying shapes to create ‘quirky’ but functional coffee pots, jugs, vases and bowls. I work using both earthenware and stoneware glazes, aiming to achieve a smooth blending of colours so as to reflect the shape of each piece. I share the studio with Lindy Barletta who has given me both advice and encouragement.

Another interest is travel and I have been to China five times with pottery groups. During these visits, we were able to visit factories, numerous ceramics departments in universities, master craftsmen and women and villages where the style of pottery has remained unchanged for centuries. I found the amazing skill and variety of work, both traditional and experimental, of peasant potters and master craftsmen inspirational. These experiences have encouraged me to experiment with and expand both techniques and form.

I am a member of the London Potters Association and the Society of Fulham Artists and Potters. I exhibit at the annual Richmond ARThouse Open Studios, Wandsworth Open Studios and the twice-yearly SOFAP Art Show at Fulham Library as well as at Sheen Pottery, alongside Lindy.