Sarah Dunstan
St Ives potter Sarah Dunstan
St Ives potter Sarah Dunstan has achieved international acclaim for her unique, slab-built work. In 2012, Sarah was elected Fellow of the Craft Potters Association.
Meet St Ives’ celebrated potter, Sarah Dunstan, whose exceptional slab-built creations have garnered international acclaim. Notably, in 2012, Sarah’s talent was honoured when she was elected Fellow of the Craft Potters Association, a recognition of her significant contribution to contemporary ceramics.
Following her graduation with a degree in ceramics from Cardiff, Sarah returned to her native Cornwall, where she founded her first pottery in 1993. Ever since, she has remained dedicated to her craft, becoming a professional potter of repute. In 2002, she found her artistic home at Gaolyard Studios, established by renowned Leach potter John Bedding. Within this vibrant creative hub, Sarah provides established potters with individual studio spaces, fostering a community of artistic excellence.
Sarah’s distinctive ceramics are a testament to her creativity. Marked by rich velvety colours and intricate hand-cut porcelain overlays, her work is instantly recognisable. This unique style reflects her deep passion for the art form and showcases her exceptional skill.
Having acquired several pieces from Sarah over the years, we have had the pleasure of witnessing her artistry firsthand. The images to the left showcase some of the treasures we own, each piece bearing the mark of Sarah’s exceptional skill and artistic vision. Among our recent acquisitions, the vibrant, bright blue plates stand out as a delightful addition to our collection, acquired during the lockdown period. Sarah’s ongoing work continues to inspire and captivate, reminding us of the enduring allure of handmade artistry.
Sarah Dunstan Plate Work explained
Nestled in the enchanting town of St Ives, Sarah breathes life into her ceramic creations, drawing from her personal visual scrapbook. To begin with, Sarah actively collects images, capturing the subtle nuances of her surroundings. These range from the elegant shape of a hidden doorway railing in St Ives to the charming design of an antique glass bottle.
Moreover, Sarah finds profound inspiration in the natural world that envelops her. Within her creations, delicate lines and intricate floral details unfurl, beautifully mirroring the serenity of her natural surroundings.
“In my work,” Sarah reveals, “I delve into the realms of half-forgotten memories and enduring childhood images. Whether it’s the vintage wallpaper that graced my family home, the captivating narrative of my Mother’s Willow Pattern plates, or even the familiar contour of an opened sardine tin, I draw from these elements.” With a keen eye, she masterfully weaves these influences into her creations, intertwining gentle nostalgia with the lasting, archival permanence of the ceramic medium.
Sarah’s artwork stands as a testament to her ability to meld the past and the present, infusing her creations with a timeless charm that resonates deeply. Through her artistry, she not only captures the essence of her surroundings but also invites viewers into a world where memories and creativity intertwine seamlessly. As a result, her work offers a captivating glimpse into the intricate tapestry of her inspirations, a visual symphony where the past dances gracefully with the present.
Ceramics Technique Sarah Dunstan Plate
Using flat sheets of stoneware clay as a canvas, Sarah embarks on her creative journey. To begin with, she delicately paints the surface with coloured slips, breathing life into the clay. Then, intricate ‘fretwork’ patterns come into play, each one individually carved from a thin layer of porcelain. Remarkably, no stencils are used. Instead, every design is meticulously hand-drawn and then skillfully cut from the porcelain sheet. Following this intricate process, these delicate creations are transferred to the prepared slab, a unique method perfected by Sarah over many years.
The decorated sheets, now brimming with intricate designs, are carefully assembled, forming the final piece. Notably, raw seams are deliberately left at the joins, enhancing the organic feel of the artwork. The surface undergoes meticulous treatment, culminating in the creation of a distinctive patina that adds depth and character to Sarah’s ceramics. After this meticulous preparation, Sarah’s creations undergo a bisque-firing process. Here, a variety of glazes and beautifully coloured slips are applied, giving her work a contemporary, striking, and instantly recognisable appearance.
Among our prized possessions is ‘The Sardine Can,’ a piece we acquired from Gaolyard Studios in St Ives, Cornwall. Additionally, we have more of Sarah’s work somewhere; they might be tucked away in storage. We enjoy swapping these pieces around, allowing each one to have its moment to shine. This rotation keeps the collection dynamic and ensures that every piece continues to enchant us with its unique beauty.
Galleries Sarah Dunstan Plate
Visit Sarah Dunstan’s Website http://www.sarahdunstan.co.uk/
Location of Gaolyard Studios and Sarah Dunstan Plate
Hotels in St Ives Cornwall
10 Brilliant Things to Do in St Ives, Cornwall
Golden beaches. Coastal drama. Proper Cornish charm.
St Ives is one of those places that wins you over fast. Light dances on turquoise water. Boats bob gently in the harbour. Meanwhile, ice cream somehow tastes better by the sea.
Here are 10 unforgettable things to do in St Ives.
1. Relax on Porthminster Beach
Soft sand. Calm water. Big views. Porthminster Beach feels almost Mediterranean on sunny days. It sits just below the railway line, so the coastal train glides past beautifully.
Swim if you dare. Paddle if you prefer. Or simply stretch out and enjoy the Cornish sunshine.
2. Visit Tate St Ives
Art lovers, this is your moment. Tate St Ives celebrates artists inspired by Cornwall’s unique light. Exhibitions change regularly. Therefore, each visit feels fresh.
The sea views from the building are spectacular too. Culture with a coastal backdrop. Perfect.
3. Explore Barbara Hepworth Museum and Sculpture Garden
Step into the former home and studio of sculptor Barbara Hepworth. Her works sit among subtropical plants. Shapes contrast beautifully with greenery.
It feels peaceful. It feels creative.
And it shows why St Ives became an artistic hub.
4. Wander the Harbour
The harbour is the heart of town. Fishing boats rest on golden sand at low tide. Seagulls patrol confidently.
Grab fish and chips. Sit on the harbour wall. Watch the tide roll back in. Simple pleasures are often the best.
5. Discover Porthmeor Beach
This is the surfer’s favourite. Waves break with energy. Lessons are available for beginners.
Even if you stay dry, it’s thrilling to watch. Plus, sunsets here are simply stunning.
6. Walk to St Nicholas Chapel on The Island
A short coastal walk leads to this tiny white chapel perched above the sea. Views stretch endlessly across the Atlantic.
Wind in your hair. Salt in the air.
It’s wonderfully refreshing.
7. Browse the Independent Galleries
St Ives is packed with small galleries. Local artists showcase bold paintings and delicate ceramics.
You might not plan to buy anything. However, temptation often wins.
8. Take the Scenic Train Ride to St Erth
This short coastal rail journey is one of the prettiest in Britain. Tracks hug the shoreline. The sea sparkles beside you.
Even locals never tire of it. Keep your camera ready.
9. Enjoy a Boat Trip to Seal Island
Hop on a small boat and head offshore. Grey seals lounge on rocky outcrops. Guides share local stories.
It feels adventurous yet relaxed. Wildlife spotting adds real excitement.
10. Indulge in a Proper Cornish Pasty
You cannot leave without one. Flaky pastry. Hearty filling. Best enjoyed warm, preferably with a sea view.
After all, calories consumed on holiday do not count. That is simply tradition.
Why St Ives Should Be on Your Cornwall List
St Ives blends art, beaches, and coastal walks effortlessly. Everything sits within easy reach. The pace feels gentle. Yet there is always something to see.
So explore slowly. Stop for cream tea. Watch another sunset.
Because in St Ives, the light lingers… and so will your memories.
