Lawrence Wilson has settled in Military Road, all the way from Illinois, via Tunbridge Wells, with his partner. It is their 29th anniversary this year. He says: “As a child, I was interested in ceramics, clay and over time I took pottery classes and joined a summer school where I learnt a lot.” Eventually Lawrence and his partner decided to emigrate, in 2005, to England which they had visited before. Both found work in education. Lawrence became head of English drama in a school in Tunbridge Wells while they were living there.
They visited Rye on several occasions and got to love it, so bought a small cottage where they spent most weekends. In 2017, the time was right when Lawrence retired to move permanently to the town and they bought their present house which offered an opportunity to make space for his dream – a working pottery studio – in the spacious garage which is easily accessed from the street. for when he has exhibitions.
Lawrence bought the necessary equipment: a potter’s wheel, an amazing kiln, hand tools and glaze. He put up useful shelving to display his art and for drying the different glazes. When having an idea of the colour wanted, often a surprising pattern emerges on the pots which can be exciting, or perhaps not, and has to be redone.
Listening to Lawrence, it is clear that designing and making his creations has become his passion. He said: “Where I lived in Illinois, a potter put out several pottery wheels and anyone interested could rent one of them for a day. I got hooked and went back many times, also learning a lot from the generous person who had the idea.”
Lawrence is very happy to talk to visitors and explain the process. He is having an open studio the first weekend in December, Saturday 3 and Sunday 4, from 11am to 3pm at 52 Military Road. Lawrence has another hidden talent: a wonderful baritone voice. He is playing in the panto Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs. For more details email: wilsonlawrenceuk@gmail.com.
Image Credits: Heidi Foster .
So talented! I love Larry’s ceramics. We bought some last Christmas and I’ll be there this year to purchase more.
Beautiful wares, old friend.
Rita and I still need to get your part of the world.
P.S. You’re not charging enough!
I have a few of his ceramics from MANY years past — way back from when he was still living in Illinois. Great talent and inspiring artistry in all of his creations! Don’t miss his open studio!