Ray Finch joined Michael Cardew at Winchcombe
Pottery way back in 1936, now some 60 years later Ray is still
following his philosophy of making quality pots at affordable
prices. This major retrospective exhibition and accompanying book
by Long Gallery owner John Edgeler provide a fitting celebration
of Ray's contribution to the moden studio pottery movement.
The Long Gallery's arts and crafts furniture made a pleasing
backdrop to the exhibition which was staged in three of the gallery's
rooms. A wonderful display slipware from the mid-1930's onwards
was shown upstairs with later stoneware downstairs including an
extensive dresser display of chargers and a collection of cider
jars including an 81cm tall monster.
The Long Gallery has a No Photography policy but the
profusely illustrated book with many of the photographs the work
of Sid Tustin's grandson Steve more than makes up for this. The
book includes conversations between John and Ray Finch, essays
by David Whiting and Phil Rogers and contributions from potters
who have worked with Ray at Winchcombe - Alex McErlain, Eddie
Hopkins and Dave Wilson. The conversations are particularly enlightening
with Ray talking about his early years working with Michael Cardew
and also his ideas on form, techniques and glazes. After reading
the book I felt I had learned much about Ray Finch as a man, a
leader and a potter and I would have no hesitation it recommending
it to anyone interested enough to have viewed this webpage.
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