Joshua Williams is a traditionally-trained studio potter based in Galloway, Scotland, throwing functional kitchenware. Inspired by the potential for studio pottery to elevate everyday objects and rituals, he creates high-fired functional earthenware with vital form and simple, expressive decoration. He uses dark green, honey-gold and cream as base colours, creating organic variation of finish by adding decorative texture. Joshua’s incorporation of local materials alongside instinctive decoration introduces elements of unpredictability into the process, making each pot unique.

What value does craft have in daily life?

I believe that craft, through its inherent characteristics of material, tactility and the fact that it comprises objects of function made with the hands of one person to be used in the hands of another, conveys to us daily those aspects of life which are most vital for living with connection and meaning. If we use, for those daily rhythms which are most simple and necessary, objects of craft then we surround ourselves with form finish and philosophy which impact hugely both the way we think, and the way we act.

What does Scottishness mean to you?

I believe in a pride in being of Scotland. Not that that shouldn't be the same in any other place, but that the features which make up our locale within the wider setting are those we celebrate and find our own personal pride in. This pride in locale should mean working with the best and worst of what Scotland is, and making from that without looking elsewhere for something which might suit us more. Scottishness is the place names and words which make up the specific geography and history to a locale, and this uniqueness must be preserved at the best of Scotland.