John Jelfs

John Jelfs (b. 1946) is a British ceramic artist working primarily in one‑off stoneware, employing traditional shino, celadon, and ash glazes. His work is characterized by simple, strongly formed shapes, reflecting a deep engagement with East Asian ceramic traditions, including the influences of Bernard Leach, Shoji Hamada, and Korean peasant pottery.

Jelfs trained at Cheltenham College of Art and Design following a previous career as a marine engineering officer. He gained further experience working for six months under Russell Collins before establishing his own pottery in 1973. Largely self‑taught, he has developed a distinctive approach that balances functional craftsmanship with aesthetic refinement.

Situated in a busy tourist area, the Cotswold Pottery presents visitors with high-quality ceramics while maintaining a focus on understated glazes and well‑proportioned forms. Through his practice, Jelfs continues to explore the dialogue between Eastern ceramic traditions and contemporary British studio pottery.