Lucas George-Jones

I am a potter still finding their way, immersing myself in the field and history of studio pottery. Continually improving my understanding of the body of clay. Hoping to bring some new life and energy to the long and inspiring heritage of my craft. I make functional everyday items intended for use with the hope that they offer enrichment to those who use them. Process is important as well as the enjoyment of connecting with the material. I think good pots embark on a life of their own once fired and speak for themselves. I hope this translates through the work.

About

Lucas George-Jones

Graduate of Clay College, class of 2024, now current apprentice to Lisa Hammond (MBE) at Maze Hill Pottery. Over the next two years or so I’m lucky to call Maze Hill a home, spending my time under Lisa’s guidance. This is a position I have longed for from a young age. I feel privileged to be able to absorb Lisa’s knowledge and understanding of the craft. This time will be invaluable, setting me up for a career as a potter and becoming a more efficient maker as well as giving me a clearer understanding of how to run a business.  

During my time at Clay College, I enjoyed exploring many different aspects of ceramics and pottery. In the later part I honed into my own voice through clay. I enjoy the luscious qualities of earthenware and slip and have worked to achieve a similar softness in high fired salt. Which was the focus of my final project. This is something I will continue to strive for in my work as I develop and make my own mark.  

While at Maze Hill Pottery I am embracing all that being an apprentice entails – throwing some of the Maze Hill functional range; general help in running the studio; packing and firing kilns; grinding pots etc. I will also plan to make the most of time available to spend developing my own work in this uniquely inspiring environment.

Currently I am exploring earthenware in an electric kiln, trying to make the most of the resources available to me. Going forwards I think this is a practical and sustainable option, and in any case will serve to inform my work if I do decide to fire with salt again in the future.  I think the soft qualities and the immediacy in working with earthenware will translate into salt fired work nicely.

Bornholm Wild Clay Research Project

An on going project delving into the history and geology of the wonderful Danish Island of Bornholm. Celebrating over ten years of collaborative research, potters Anne Mette Hjortshoj, Iwami Shinsuke, and Ann-Charlotte Ohlsson along with Jesper L. Larsen, continue to find and test Bornholm clays and other raw materials. Building a library of resources to use in their practice. Over the years other potters and students from around the world have participated. I was very lucky to join in the summer of 2022 over a period of six weeks, helping assist these wonderful makers. I am forever grateful for my time there, at such a young age, being exposed to a world of love and clay.

For more information head over to Bornholm Wild Clay Research Project (bwcrp.webflow.io)