Martyn James
Ceramics
I began exploring clay casually for a couple of years, firing work in an old, rusty cone‑sitter kiln. It was a great way to learn what I could get away with and to start understanding the process. Everything changed in 2025 when I bought a more reliable kiln — one I could actually control — which opened up a far wider scope for experimentation.
My work is inspired by the human form, though not in a literal way. I'm drawn more to suggestion than accuracy, aiming to capture movement, presence, or a feeling rather than a precise figure.
Each piece starts with an idea, but quickly finds its own rhythm, often taking me in unexpected directions — which is part of the magic.
I primarily work in stoneware, with the occasional use of terracotta, and every piece is hand-built. I want the finished forms to feel as though they have emerged from the earth itself, which is why I tend to favour oxides for colour. More recently, I’ve been experimenting with balancing the effects of oxides with the unpredictable surface qualities created by smoke firing.
My work is inspired by the human form, though not in a literal way. I'm drawn more to suggestion than accuracy, aiming to capture movement, presence, or a feeling rather than a precise figure.
Each piece starts with an idea, but quickly finds its own rhythm, often taking me in unexpected directions — which is part of the magic.
I primarily work in stoneware, with the occasional use of terracotta, and every piece is hand-built. I want the finished forms to feel as though they have emerged from the earth itself, which is why I tend to favour oxides for colour. More recently, I’ve been experimenting with balancing the effects of oxides with the unpredictable surface qualities created by smoke firing.
Email: MartynJamesArt@iCloud.com
Website: https://www.MartynJamesArt.co.uk