Potter’s Day with John Wheeldon took place on Saturday 17th January 2026 10am-4pm Knowl Hill Village Hall, The Terrace, Knowl Hill, Reading, Berks, RG10 9XB
It was an extended opportunity to meet a potter of repute who is invited to talk about their work, present and demonstrate.
John Wheeldon: “I am a Maker. It happened to be pottery that captured me first, but it could have been wood, glass or another medium.
I need to make and feel strangely uneasy if I don’t.
That is why I make things”.
Potters Day on Saturday was a highly enjoyable day. It was sociable, enlightening and fun. We all learnt something from John’s 55 year career developing and honing his craft. We met up and chatted to other members of the Guild over our legendry bring and share lunch and our tipple of choice. We listened with interest to John talk about his varied career where he showed us examples of his work as it evolved and explained what had steered him in each direction. We were treated to insider tricks of the trade and hand building and throwing demonstrations; including rouletting, sprigging, and decoration. There was something for everybody.
From a member “I am so pleased I came; it was such an interesting day; I want to rush home and try out some of John’s ideas. The lunch was amazing!”
From the Valentine Clays website:
“John Wheeldon, a highly skilled potter based in Wirksworth in the Derbyshire Dales, has been refining his craft for 55 years. Drawing inspiration from early Industrial Revolution potters such as Wedgwood, Whieldon, and Greatbach, he creates a distinctive range of tableware that reflects historical traditions while maintaining a contemporary edge. His work is particularly focused on teapots and complementary pieces, showcasing both function and artistry.
Recently, John has expanded his practice to include tulipieres, a vase form that originated in 18th-century Holland, adding another historical dimension to his work. Using white earthenware clay as his canvas, he decorates each piece with thick, trailed slip, a technique reminiscent of tube-lining, which adds texture and depth. The final touch is an oxide-stained transparent glaze that enhances the intricate slip work, highlighting the craftsmanship and rich surface details. Through this fusion of historical influence and technical mastery, John’s ceramics celebrate both tradition and innovation, bringing a timeless elegance to everyday objects”