Deirdre Wilson Pottery
- Mathilde Herbinier
- May 7
- 2 min read
My practice centers around creating functional handmade pottery using red stoneware, specifically Plainsman M350, which I find ideal for its richness and versatility. I work on an electric wheel, throwing each piece with care and attention to detail. My pieces are known for their refinement and elegance, often becoming beloved favorites in the cupboards of many collectors. My glazes are warm and vibrant showcasing jewel tones and the final products are inviting to the touch with both glossy and matte finishes.
Each piece undergoes a thoughtful process: I tool and alter the pottery at the leather hard stage, followed by bisque firing and glazing. All but one of my glazes are original recipes that I mix myself, and I apply them using a variety of techniques—dipping, brushing, and sometimes using wax resist for unique effects.
While working I find inspiration in the rhythms of daily life, whether it’s listening to music, podcasts, or simply observing the nature around me. My wheel is the basement of my 1890’s farmhouse and the glaze studio is the garage and in the warmer months I open the large door and enjoy watching our five chickens pecking, the birds at the feeders feeding and admiring all of the flowers in the gardens.
I am mostly self taught and In the beginning of my journey I was captivated by the fine, delicate qualities of porcelain. However, I soon fell in love with the earthy, tactile nature of red stoneware. I taught myself how to work with this material, coaxing it into forms that are unexpectedly elegant and refined.
In the 1990’s I was a part of building Montreal’s indie craft fair scene in The Mile End. It was an exciting time to be involved with so many creative types, from artists, cooks and musicians to other brilliant crafts people.
Over the years, I’ve cultivated a distinctive artistic voice that blends sophistication with a sense of discerning charm. Today, I create pieces that reflect my love for both beauty and functionality. My work is defined by timeless elegance, featuring subtle textures and vibrant glazes that invite tactile and visual pleasure.
For me, pottery is not just about creating objects—it’s about crafting pieces that resonate and become part of daily life. Ultimately, my goal is to create pottery that resonates with the user, offering both beauty and practicality. I aim to make pieces that people will cherish and use on a daily basis.
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