Laurence McGowan

1976-1979  -  Aldermaston Pottery, Berkshire with Alan Caiger-Smith.

1979  -  His retirement Collingbourne Kingston, Wiltshire.

 

Laurence was born in Salisbury, Wiltshire. He began work as a surveyor but after a few years decided to apply for a position at Alan Caiger-Smith’s Aldermaston Pottery. It was here that he learned the technique of throwing, decorating and glazing by developing an understanding of majolica.

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Work made by Laurence is very distinctive and easily identified. All of his pots are wheel thrown and predominantly brush decorated. Influences within his work derive from the Middle East and the English Arts and Crafts Movement as well as floral themes observed from the Wiltshire countryside.

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Laurence added an extra dimension to his work by producing calligraphy on some presentation pieces. These works are increasingly sought after. He retired from making pots in 2014 to spend more time with his family and to continue travelling.

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Laurence McGowan’s work is housed in many private collections and museums which include the Stoke-on-Trent City Museum and Cheltenham Art Gallery. He was a member of The Craft Potters Association and exhibited widely throughout the UK during his working career. Laurence showed work in the Bakers Dozen Exhibition at The Round House Gallery a number of times and stocked the gallery for over twenty years. It is difficult to source pieces today but we try and continue to make work available as best we can.