Simon Olley
2026 – Taking part in Potfest by the Lake – Compton Verney and Potfest in the Park – Hutton-in-the-Forest
“The poses of the dogs are carefully matched to each piece I create, illustrated and carved entirely by hand. I never trace, use stencils, or apply decals — I prefer to work freely and intuitively, allowing as little as possible to come between my brushes, my tools, and the damp clay.”
Engaged with the bond between humans and their canine companions, Simon’s work brings together illustration and sgraffito to create distinctive ceramic commissions that honour his clients’ beloved dogs. Alongside these, he produces studio pieces inspired by the spirited—and sometimes imagined—lives of his own past dogs, preserving their stories in ceramic form.
Simon Olley is a Selected Member of the Craft Potters Association (CPA)