The Great Pottery Throw Down Experience 2022
I was extremely fortunate to have got onto the Channel 4 programme of series 5 (after 4 attempts!) and can rate it in my top 10 of fun, life changing and life affirming experiences. I met some wonderful people who have become life-long pottery buddies and who continue to make me laugh, guide me and inspire me.
The Challenges on the programme stretched my ability and I learnt a lot along the way, not least to be more confident in myself and my work. I can honestly say that it changed my life as I now rate myself as potter and see my future continuing to make things and sharing the joy of clay.
A big BIG thank you to all at Love Productions who continue to make wonderful programmes and make many people very happy.
What was it about?
Each year 12 Contestants are chosen from around the Country who are all amateurs (ie. not making a living from selling their work) and are set Pottery challenges over a period of 10 weeks. There are different themes each week and challenges that get harder the more it progresses. Each week one contestant leaves and one is made Potter of the Week.
In week one I was Potter of the Week much to my complete amazement, with a winning Crockery set for a child.
And how far did I get? All the way to the Semi-finals!
Talks
Since the show many people have asked if I would speak about the experience of being on TV, and W.I.'s in particular have been keen to hear me talk. It is something I have really enjoyed doing as I get quite excited about re-living such a fun experience.
In 2023 I did 12 talks and took part in a fun week-end for West Country Potters
In 2024 I have 7 talks booked in so far!