...the sounding line: A visit to Gooseneck Pottery

This long weekend is the Kiln Opening and Winter Exhibition for my friend and artist Rob Barron at Gooseneck Pottery.

Rob's work is hand-thrown and wood fired stoneware.

The highlight for me are the glazes he manages to create. Like sap dripping down a tree trunk, or gold flecks caught in the rim of a pan. My favourite effect looks like lava caking on the side of the pot which Rob explained was 'slag'.

Pottery for me is an organic primeval art form. The firing of a kiln for several days, subjecting the clay forms to temperatures of 1,100 °C to 1,300 °C while teasing effects by loading the kiln with wood is beyond my tiny mind.

On offer are pieces as humble as the herb pot, coffee mug, or dinner plate through to epic works by a master craftsman. I have had my eye on the boats (pictured top left) and one day they will sail on into the back of my car. Those looking for a water feature could do no better than Rob's standing columns (left in right of shot).

Nestled in this hills of Kardella Gooseneck Pottery is definitely worth a visit.