The Pottery Studio and Shop | Detail from a Mocha pot
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| Vanessa Waller runs the Pottery Studio and Shop in Wooler high street and she is one of three remaining potters in Britain producing Mocha ceramics. So called because of its dendritical character, forming tree like patterns. The word ‘Mocha’ comes from the agate stone common to the Red Sea area. The Mocha technique was first introduced to Britain during the 1780’s at the Staffordshire potteries.The unique design is formed by using small amounts of an acidic liquid and carefully dropping these tiny amounts onto the alkaline slip prior to firing. The resultant capillary reaction causes the infinite variation of patterns formed by the capillary action. The acidic solution called ‘Tea’ originally consisted of tobacco juices, herbs, etc. Adding colour oxides to the ‘Tea’ produces colours. The angle at which the pot is held, and the manner of application controls which sort of pattern will be achieved. Vanessa also makes items with sprigged sheep on them and a range of castles, both reflecting the Northumberland area in which she is based. There are other interesting items such as animal toast racks, note holders, inlaid glass seahorses, butterflies, and sculptured curlews, partridges, pheasants, and meerkats. She makes vases and jugs using a local glaze ingredient which is kept secret and she also produces a range of commemorative bowls, plates and decorated earthenware bowls. All her work is hand-thrown on the potters wheel and each piece is individual. We cannot guarantee uniform or consistent colour and texture of work since the nature of the production produces various effects beyond our control. Images and measurements are provided for guidance only and if colour, size, etc are of paramount importance we recommend visiting the shop to examine the items individually. |