Clay College Gallery
‘Designs for Tea’
(21 February – 12 April)
Available online
‘Designs for Tea’ exhibition of studio pottery tea ware
‘Designs For Tea’ showcases a unique collection of original tea ware created by professional studio potters from around the UK, inspired by European and Asian cultures and rituals.
The exhibition celebrates the quiet beauty of functional studio pottery and the global conversation embedded in everyday handmade objects highlighting the rich dialogue between function, aesthetics, and cultural heritage.
Each hand-crafted piece reflects an intrinsic respect for the intimate rituals and traditions of tea shared around these objects while embracing the innovation and individuality of each maker’s approach to their design and making process.
Tea is more than just a beverage; it is a ritual shaped by centuries of values and meaning. From ancient China, where tea was first cultivated and offered as medicine, it travelled along trade routes to monasteries, courts, and homes across Asia and beyond.
Over time, distinct ceremonies emerged – the quiet precision of the Japanese tea ritual, the contemplative brewing of Chinese gongfu cha, and the social warmth of afternoon tea in Britain. Each tradition reflects its culture’s values, turning the simple act of steeping leaves in water into a moment of pause, hospitality, and connection with history.
Featured Artists: Britta James, Francis Lloyd-Jones, Hamish Jackson, Sue Pryke, Vicky Hageman