Crafting masterpieces: The art and skill behind Morris and James Pottery
Thriving under the guidance of over 15 dedicated artisans, the iconic establishment continues to produce colourful treasures that enrich homes and gardens.
At the heart of Morris & James Pottery lies their onsite clay pit, providing the raw material for the vast selection of ceramics, pots, home décor, and gardenware on offer. Within the expansive buildings housing the showroom and pottery factory, these skilled artisans bring clay to life through a blend of traditional techniques and innovative methods.
The journey of creation begins with the careful blending of the terracotta clay, harvested and stored onsite to ensure quality and consistency. Potters then shape the clay on spinning wheels, employing a unique method of working with extruded clay pipes which enable them to craft larger-scale pots by hand.
After shaping, the pots undergo a meticulous drying process in a controlled environment called the ‘summer room’. This ensures that they dry slowly and evenly, reducing the risk of cracks or warping. Pots are set on beds of sand, ensuring they maintain their shape as they gradually shrink and dry. It can take up to four weeks for larger pieces to dry completely.
Once the pieces are bone dry, the pots are fired in kilns, reaching temperatures over 1,000 degrees celsius in a process known as bisque firing. This prepares them for the application of Morris & James custom- formulated glazes, meticulously applied by hand to imbue each piece with vibrant hues and distinctive character.
The glazing process starts with spray glazing. Using an air gun, the glaze is expertly applied to achieve an even and consistent coverage across the surface of the pot. This method allows for a smoother and more uniform base coat that serves as the foundation for subsequent layers of glaze. Finally, the pots are hand-decorated, adding the finishing touches that elevate them to works of art.
One of the best ways to witness the magic of Morris & James Pottery firsthand is by joining one of their daily factory tours at 11.30am. Here, you’re immersed in the creative process, and learn about the transformation of raw clay into iconic pieces of art. It's a rare opportunity to glimpse behind the scenes of one of the few potteries of this scale in New Zealand.
From start to finish, the creation of a Morris & James Pottery piece is a labour of love, guided by a commitment to excellence that spans generations. So, the next time you admire a piece of Morris & James Pottery, take a moment to appreciate the skill and dedication that went into its making - a true testament to the enduring beauty of local handmade craftsmanship.
www.MorrisAndJames.co.nz | 48 Tongue Farm Rd, Matakana