taoran.co.uk

Welcome to Chris Owen’s ceramics showcase.

“Taoran” means “happy, carefree”.  That’s how I feel about these pots.  The Chinese characters also mean “right pottery”.  I like the double meaning, and have adopted it as my motto.

My ambition is for these pots to become a part of daily life, and so lend it a little grace.  I hope they create a sense of ceremony in the simple act of serving food or drink.  I want them to make the everyday things we do enjoyable.

I use Chinese characters because they move me.  The calligraphy has a formal beauty that is very appealing.  But the language also carries great depth of meaning in a brief text.

I glaze the pots in muted colours, with subtle shading, allow the shapes to speak out.  They appeal to the user through their quiet presence that grows through use and familiarity.

Come in, and see what I mean.