The Potter’s Pick is our monthly maker highlight, chosen by potter John Bedding, founder of St Ives Ceramics.
For our May Potter’s Pick John has chosen potter Kevin Warren.
Born in 1949 in Gravesend, Kent, Kevin studied Studio Pottery at Medway College of Art and Design, completing the course in 1977. He then trained for four years with studio potter Mike Goddard. Kevin now lives and works in Aylsham, Norfolk.
John Bedding on this month’s Potter’s Pick:
“I first came across Kevin’s pots many years ago at a Hatfield pottery event. At the time he was making soda fired stoneware but currently he works in earthenware. I was impressed by the quality of the work and by the man himself, and we have exhibited his work continuously from then.
I would describe Kevin’s pots as “Folk Art”. They have a warm rustic appearance that can fit into any room. The decorations are bright and contemporary while the forms are derived for function over design. For me they are the embodiment of the Mingei concept of beauty; craft evolved through the unconscious mind. Repetition produces such a state by releasing the brain from its conscious desire to interfere and create doubt and hesitancy, this honesty is in Kevin’s pots.
His throwing is loose and organic; his decoration is positive, fluid, and consistent. The results are pots you want to use and have around for everyday use.
When I said I like the man it was an honest appraisal of a boisterous personality in company but quiet in his making. He puts everything in his pots, rather than spending time making a noise on social media. I love having his work around in my gallery. They are bright and happy pots and at an honest price.
On a technical note they are made from red earthenware clay covered in a white slip. The decorations are brushwork with coloured pigments, and sgraffito markings revealing the dark clay beneath. They are covered by a transparent glaze giving a slightly ivory hue.”
— JOHN BEDDING, 2026
Receive 10% off Kevin’s work online or in the gallery until the 31st of May.
Use the online code: Potter’s Pick at checkout.
If you’d like more information about available pieces or to explore our collections, our team is always happy to assist.
Visit us at our gallery in St Ives, Cornwall, or get in touch by phone or email — we’ll ensure you find exactly what you’re looking for.