John Leach

JOHN LEACH, eldest grandson of renowned potter Bernard Leach and son of David Leach, continues the family tradition at Muchelney Pottery on the edge of the ancient village of Muchelney in the heart of the Somerset Levels.

John Leach’s one-off signed work has evolved from his long commitment to the repeat production ethic. Diversifying from this discipline he has explored the possibilities of the wood-fired kiln - his "unpredictable dragon" - following new creative impulses to produce fresh shapes and subtle colours, in particular, his saggar-fired "Black Mood" pots, much sought-after by collectors and galleries. John’s work is on display and for sale in the Gallery at Muchelney Pottery and in selected major galleries.

Muchelney kitchen pots are used daily in kitchens all over the world, but the pottery is still very much a small family business. The pots are all lovingly hand-thrown, using local clays, and wood-fired in the three-chambered kiln to the high stoneware temperature of 1320°C, which creates their distinctive "toasted" finish. Kiln Opening Day is always a time of great suspense and anticipation. "It’s the unpredictability which is forever exciting," John explains.

Examples are John Leach's work can also be found in 10th century Muchelney Abbey and Cleeve Abbey, Somerset and in the permanent collections of the V&A Museum, London and The Tate Gallery, St Ives.