Pollie & Garry Uttley

Pollie & Garry Uttley first visited India in 1995 & this, together with subsequent visits, provided the foundation for the richly patterned ceramic work they now produce.

Garry has been largely influenced by the architecture and in particular the pierced stonework screens known as'Jali . This he interprets into squares of patterned tiles.

Pollie is inspired by the tribal textiles of Rajasthan, Gujarat and Karnataka. She produces wall panels of 'Quilts', 'Torans' (door hangings) and life size representations of Tribal blouses and childrern's dresses, plus a range of bowls and dishes. Clay stamps are made and then impressed into the soft clay to form the patterns.

The white earthenware body is once fired to 1110°C and is then'colour washed' rather than glazed, in response to the colours of India.....pale neutral tones of the 'Thar' desert, Indigo from the batik work and the rich, vibrant colours of the tribal costumes. Bronze powder in ormoline medium is added to emphasise the richness and the coloured clay is then stiched and cowrie shells, coins, bells and 'Sheesha' glass are added to help blur the distinction between clay and textiles.

Pollie & Garry continue to travel in India to research their work.

Members of:  Peak District Products
  Midland Potters Association