“The Colourful World of Fish”

We are delighted to present the latest work by John Bedding in our September Festival Window Exhibition. This showcase features his new fish series—pieces inspired by a recent visit to the Maldives, where the vibrant patterns and intricate beauty of the reef’s sea creatures left a lasting impression.

Reflecting on his creative process, John shares:

“On a recent visit to the Maldives and snorkelling on the reefs, I was struck by the huge variety of complex and colourful patterns they displayed. They became the inspiration for my recent fish series. I could never try to imitate these complex and intriguing designs, but I re-fashioned from them my interpretation of their beauty. I regard them as part of a storyboard on an exploration into design, both in the natural world, and human crafts.

I am in my 60th year of potting, and on a broader scale I find myself making just for the joy of exploring technique and form. I enjoy the challenges in the restrictions and in the huge variation that pottery making offers. You must have a complete vision of the finished pieces as throughout this process, materials will change in both colour and shape. But these restrictions offer an opportunity to explore the chemistry in your materials, and in the firing process in an almost infinite variety of ways. Unlike other crafts you are never in complete control, and in the 60 years I have never lost my enthusiasm for the exploration and challenges of my craft – It is a journey without an ending.

The Colourful World of Fish is now in our gallery window and online.