JO DAVIES

Jo Davies has been working with clay for around 25 years, and for the last 15 of those she has made wheel-thrown objects exclusively in porcelain. Her interest lies in shape and form, and in how domestic objects can be evolved to feel subtly different from the items we are used to, along with how they feel in the hand. 

Much of the inspiration for her work comes from small details. A design often begins with the consideration of a single functional object, such as a ladle or a small pouring jug, or even an aspect of a functional object, like a pouring lip or the way a cup is held. She then evolves this thought into something with greater tactility or simplicity. Davies’ pieces have a fluidity to them, as if they might still be wet clay just off the wheel, with simple surfaces allowing the form to be the main focus. 

Sometimes she introduces a second colour or surface treatment, but always to enhance the form, with markings unique to each object. Her work is guided by how people will eventually use it; anticipating how an object will be held and used always influences the final outcome. 

Her objects are designed to be absorbed into daily life: to be used and to enhance everyday moments. A cup should feel good in the hand, bowls and platters should frame food beautifully and feel generous. 

Davies is based in Herefordshire, having returned after growing up there, though she spent more than 15 years in London, first attending the Royal College of Art and then building her practice. She now divides her time between making her own range of work, creating commissions for private clients, and designing for companies such as Union Coffee and Mulberry. Passionate about sharing her knowledge, she also teaches, and in 2023 her first book was published.