Bernard Leach was a highly influential British potter and artist, recognised as one of the great figures of 20th-century ceramics. His work played a pivotal role in developing studio pottery in Britain and around the world. Born in Hong Kong and spending much of his early life in the East, Leach's aesthetic was deeply influenced by his experiences in Japan, where he was introduced to the country's rich ceramics tradition.
Bridging East and West: Bernard Leach's Ceramic Fusion
In 1920, Bernard Leach established the Leach Pottery in St. Ives, Cornwall, with his friend, the Japanese potter Shoji Hamada. This became a central hub for the studio pottery movement, merging Eastern and Western art and philosophy in ceramics. Leach's work and his approach to pottery emphasised the importance of handmade craftsmanship, the beauty of functional objects, and the integration of artistic integrity into everyday life.
Leach is also well-known for his writing, particularly "A Potter's Book," published in 1940, which outlines his philosophy and techniques. This book became a foundational text for potters all over the world, advocating for pottery as a combination of art, craft, and philosophy. Through his teachings, writings, and pottery, Leach had a profound influence on the development of ceramics, encouraging potters to value the artistic expression as much as the utility of their creations.
Over his long career, Bernard Leach received numerous accolades and his work was collected by major museums. Today, he is celebrated not just for his beautiful pottery but for his significant contributions to the craft and philosophy of pottery, influencing generations of artists and potters worldwide.