A river of flames flows over the surface of the pots, individually marking each pot with the curl of the flames's touch. Each pot is a unique piece capturing the moments of trial by fire.

Even the glazed surfaces are enriched through the firing process. The heat that is produced from the flames touch and a deposit of fine ash from the consumed wood, tend to catch just one side of the pot, which in turn adds vibrance to the glaze finish.

Nick Rees has worked with John Leach at Muchelney Pottery near Langport, Somerset since 1972. The continuing success of the Mulchelney classic range owes much to Nick's deft hand, critical eye and skills in managing the firing of the three-chambered, wood-fired kiln.

Muchelney Pottery makes well thrown pots that are functional for daily use, aesthetically pleasing, with an individuality and freedom within a very disciplined way of making. Hopefully going beyond technique and freed by the process of learning through continued repetition. What is primarily learned at Muchelney is a "seeing eye". This is an understanding and control of shape, the fine tuning that comes from a mastering of the process: craftsmanship. It is knowing intimately the material, in all aspects of making and firing, so that hopefully its true spirit - the "truth to materials" - can be produced.

It is a journey of exploration that continues now with Nick Rees' own signed pieces. The Leach tradition is still there, reinterpreted and personally explored. Many of these individual pots have subtle alteration, are segmented faceted or fluted to accentuate the form. Often gently spiralling around the pot, these alterations produce added movement and dimension to the pot's form. Nick uses both stoneware and porcelain, the inspiration is obvious but the touch is soft and refined.

Nick is a fellow of the Craft Potters Association. 

Work generally available from: