Andrew Osborne
Andrew Osborne Potter
Andrew Osborne is the artist behind one of our most treasured pieces, a brightly coloured Raku Ocean Liner that we purchased in Brighton from a small gallery on East Street called The Hugo Barclay Gallery. That gallery has long since closed, as the owners retired around 2001, but during its years of operation, we visited frequently and acquired several pieces that continue to bring life and colour to our home. Andrew Osborne’s Ocean Liner remains a standout, measuring approximately 55 cm high by 45 cm wide, a striking combination of scale, colour, and craftsmanship.
The piece is slab-built and then Raku-fired, producing a vibrant and slightly unpredictable finish that gives it a unique character. We recall seeing Andrew create other remarkable works as well, including terraced houses and large cars, each showing the same meticulous attention to detail. I even attempted Raku pottery myself during an evening class in Cosham, Hampshire, but my creations never came close to the elegance and precision of Andrew’s work. Raku, which means “enjoyment,” perfectly reflects the delight and wonder his pieces bring.
It’s extraordinary how he achieved such a pristine finish through a process that is, by nature, unpredictable and fiery. Andrew Osborne eventually moved on to other pursuits, including landscape gardening, and no longer produces these wonderful ceramics. Yet his artistry continues to captivate, and the Ocean Liner stands as a lasting reminder of his skill, creativity, and the joy his work has brought to those fortunate enough to own it.
Jennie Hale (Andrew’s partner) still produces lovely pieces of pottery. They set up a pottery together on a Farmstead in Cornwall. Jennie produces Raku-fired animals and tableware; her work features in many galleries around Cornwall and the country.
Raku Firing – A Fiery Dance of Art and Science
Raku is one of the most exciting and dramatic techniques in ceramics. Unlike traditional pottery firing methods, Raku is fast, unpredictable, and full of surprises, which is exactly why it has captivated artists and collectors alike for centuries. The process begins with shaping the pottery, often using hand-building or slab-building techniques, rather than the conventional wheel. Once the piece is formed and dried, it is ready for the intense and exhilarating Raku firing.
The firing itself is rapid. The pottery is heated in a kiln to around 1000 °C (approximately 1830 °F). This is significantly hotter than what most casual ceramics methods use, and it must be done with care to avoid cracking or damage. The high temperature transforms the clay body and the glaze, bringing out colours and textures that would not be possible in slower, more controlled firings. During this phase, the excitement begins because the outcome is never entirely predictable. Each piece reacts differently to the heat, creating subtle nuances in colour, shine, and texture that make every work unique.
Once the pottery reaches the required heat, it is carefully removed from the kiln while still glowing red hot. This is the most dramatic moment of Raku. The piece is then placed into a container or metal drum filled with combustible materials—commonly sawdust, newspaper, or even grass clippings. The instant the hot pottery meets these combustibles, flames flare and smoke billows, interacting with the glaze and surface of the clay. This step infuses the pottery with smoky, organic patterns, sometimes creating strong metallic or iridescent effects that cannot be achieved through any other method.
Finally, the pottery is often plunged into cold water. This sudden temperature change produces a thermal shock that crackles and crazes the glaze, further enhancing its distinctive appearance. The combination of heat, smoke, and shock locks in these unique effects, resulting in pottery that is alive with texture, colour, and unpredictability.
Raku firing is therefore as much a performance as it is a craft. It requires skill, intuition, and respect for the materials, but it rewards the artist with pieces that are vibrant, bold, and truly one-of-a-kind. Each finished piece carries a story of fire, smoke, and water, a testament to the dynamic and energetic nature of this fascinating ceramic technique.
Best Art Galleries in Brighton – Top Picks
Brighton is a buzzing city for art lovers. From contemporary exhibitions to independent spaces, there’s something for every taste. Here’s a numbered list of the best art galleries to explore:
1. Phoenix Brighton
Phoenix Brighton is a must-visit for contemporary art enthusiasts. It showcases cutting-edge exhibitions, often highlighting local and emerging artists. Expect photography, installations, and mixed media that push boundaries.
2. Hove Museum & Art Gallery
Located just a short distance from the seafront, this gallery features an eclectic mix of art and design. The permanent collection spans fine art, ceramics, and costume, while temporary exhibitions keep things fresh and exciting.
3. The Goodwood Gallery
A hidden gem, The Goodwood Gallery focuses on contemporary and affordable artwork. It’s perfect for collectors seeking unique pieces without breaking the bank. The gallery frequently hosts artist talks and events.
4. Underdog Gallery
Underdog Gallery champions street art and modern visual culture. Expect vibrant, bold pieces with plenty of personality. The space also hosts workshops and community events for local creatives.
5. Fabrica Gallery
Fabrica is a dynamic contemporary art space housed in a converted church. It presents rotating exhibitions that include sculpture, painting, and photography. The gallery also offers talks, workshops, and collaborative projects.
6. Phoenix Brighton Artists’ Studios
This is more than a gallery—it’s a working studio space where visitors can meet artists in person. The collective showcases a variety of media, giving a behind-the-scenes look at the creative process.
7. Hove Contemporary Gallery
A smaller gallery with a focus on modern painting and photography. Exhibitions rotate regularly, often highlighting local talent, and the intimate space makes every visit feel personal.
8. Shelley Art Gallery
Known for supporting emerging artists, the Shelley Art Gallery provides a welcoming environment for discovering new talent. Their exhibitions often include abstract, figurative, and experimental works.
9. Lazyman & Co.
This quirky space combines a gallery, café, and gift shop. It features contemporary artwork and unique prints, perfect for those who want to combine browsing with a coffee break.
10. Hove Studios & Gallery
Hove Studios & Gallery showcases a mix of visual arts, including painting, ceramics, and sculpture. The gallery often hosts pop-up exhibitions and open studio events.
Brighton’s art scene is diverse, colourful, and full of surprises. Whether you’re hunting for contemporary work or classic pieces, these galleries offer a perfect introduction to the city’s creative spirit.
Where can I find some of Andrew Osbornes works?
Andrew retired a long time ago, I believe that he became a landscape gardener. His partner Jennie Hale Produces ceramics, maybe you could ask Jennie to see if Andrew still makes any ceramic pots.