Paul Jackson’s work derives from two interrelated processes. Each piece is first thrown on the wheel, then subtly altered in form – giving the pot an individual character and strength defined by a journey of discovery. The journey continues during decoration, where the pot’s elegance and sense of balance grow directly out of Paul’s concern for harmony between form, colour, and the painted surface.
Paul uses white earthenware to construct his energetic and sinuous forms. The clay allows for the dynamic shaping of the pieces, which form the vessels which go on to be given diverse and colourful decoration.
Recently Paul has diversified in his working methods, using local stoneware and porcelain in a salt glaze kiln. This gave rise to the porcelain series which celebrated the effects of the glazes in their own right, albeit with some references to the coastline and rock formations of North Cornwall.
Paul Jackson qualified in Studio Ceramics in 1977 at Harrow School of Art. Following a short period teaching in London, he relocated to Cornwall, where he established his pottery in 1979. He moved to his present home at Helland Bridge, where he works in a studio converted from an old chapel, in 1989. He has exhibited regularly and widely in both the UK and the US, and his work can be found in many major galleries.