Russell Kingston

Russell Kingston is a contemporary ceramic artist deeply inspired by the North Devon slipware tradition. Known for his rustic yet refined approach, Russell’s work celebrates the rich heritage of slipware while bringing a modern sensibility to his pieces. His ceramics are crafted to be both beautiful and functional, designed for everyday use at the table.

Russell’s process involves a combination of throwing, slab building, and extruding, creating robust forms with a natural, hand-made quality. He emphasises the fluidity and expressive nature of slip—liquid clay that he dips, pours, brushes, trails, and splashes onto his pieces. This dynamic approach captures the movement of clay and imparts a sense of vitality in each pot. His designs are accented with oxides that add a distinctive color palette, achieved through firing in a homemade gas kiln to around 1100°C.

With over 15 years of experience and a decade dedicated solely to his craft, Russell has developed a unique style that blends historical techniques with a contemporary aesthetic, making his work resonate in both traditional and modern settings. His ceramics, which often feature simple yet strong forms with textured rims and expressive handles, are a tribute to the craftsmanship of Devon’s potters, adapted for today’s tastes

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