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John Wheeldon
Creating tableware that contemporises traditional 18th century creamware designs, Derbyshire-based ceramicist John Wheeldon draws inspiration from early pioneers in the field, such as Josiah Wedgewood, Thomas Whieldon and William Greatbach. To decorate his work, John has manufactured his own specialist tools, such as roulettes and handle dies, based on examples found in museums originating from the 1700s.
Maker's Story
Creating tableware that contemporises traditional 18th century creamware designs, Derbyshire-based ceramicist John Wheeldon draws inspiration from early pioneers in the field, such as Josiah Wedgewood, Thomas Whieldon and William Greatbach. To decorate his work, John has manufactured his own specialist tools, such as roulettes and handle dies, based on examples found in museums originating from the 1700s.
THE PROCESS
John throws most of his pieces, using press-moulds and extrusions to create exterior additions. The pieces are bisque fired to 1120°C, and decorated with transparent lead-free glaze mixed with blends of coloured stains. John's pieces are handcrafted with clay sourced from Stoke On Trent and present modern interpretations of classic forms, inspired by early 19th Century serveware and creamware.
Q&A
1. What motivates you to make?
I’m motivated by a need to make – if not actually potting, I will be thinking, researching and planning my next pieces. I suppose being a potter defines me.
2. What and/or who are you most inspired or influenced by?
Most of my inspiration comes from history and the pots that are left to see around us in museums and private collections. My present work references the early 18th century and the pioneering developments of Wedgewood, Wheildon (no relation) and others in Staffordshire, Derbyshire, Worcester and Chelsea. I am also interested in the Derbyshire and Nottinghamshire salt-glaze tradition.
3. What is your unique approach to your craft, and how have you honed your skills?
My skills have been honed through constant practice and the belief that I’m still yet to make my best work. I like my work to demonstrate accuracy and precision while still being lively; it is also defined through the particular tools I use – the roulette which defines edges and the extruder dies that I use to make handles.
4. What is your defining or proudest moment as a maker so far?
I think my proudest moment was being selected as a Fellow of the Crafts Potters Association. I also get a feeling of achievement when I see my work in museums, galleries and private collections.
5. What is your dream project?
This is a difficult one. I’m not sure I have a dream project but working with The New Craftsmen has been constantly rewarding and has pushed my work in directions I wouldn’t have imagined when we started collaborating.
To find out more about commissioning John Wheeldon for a bespoke piece or to be kept informed about new collections from this particular maker, please email [email protected]
