About this Event
Welcome to the Potters Open Day 2026.
Celebrating Contemporary Ceramics and Pivotal Pottery of the Past.
Join us on 22nd March 2026 for a full day celebrating contemporary ceramics, featuring our President of the Guild, John Higgins, alongside Toni de Jesus and Paul Young.
π John Higgins is a Fellow of the Craft Potters Association of Great Britain, a member of the International Academy of Ceramics, and a lifelong maker, teacher, and demonstrator. His work is inspired by the powerful relationship between nature, place, and people.
π¨ Toni de Jesus draws on English earthenware, slipware, and European folk art, especially the Staffordshire wares of the 18th century. His work balances charm, honesty, and joy, blending tradition with a modern, personal touch.
π¨ Paul Young creates sculptural ceramics where imagination and form collide, producing striking, tactile works.
Meet the artists, ask questions, and take home original works β donβt miss the Blue Matchbox pop-up shop, and of course there will be our infamous (and fabulous) raffle.
Whether you're a seasoned potter or a complete beginner, this event is perfect for all skill levels. Immerse yourself in the world of ceramics as you watch and listen to these amazing artists.
If you would like to attend our Potters Open Day ZOOM EVENT instead, please purchase tickets via this link: ZOOM
Outline of schedule - timings may change:
09.30 Start time, audience seated.
9.45 Welcome, general house keeping and introductions.
10:00 - 11:00 Lecture
11:00-11:45 tea break
11:45-13:45 first demo
13:45-14:45 lunch and raffle
14:45-16:45 second demo
16.45 Close and thanks from Jackie Harrop, DCPG Chair.
Please note exact timings during the day may vary.
FOOD - the onsite Cafe, Fade to Black, will be open for hot and cold drinks and cake/snacks. They are also offering a lunch platter which is PRE ORDER ONLY. There is a meat and vegan option. You will find this once you press to purchase a ticket, the screen will show this as an "add-on".
You are of course welcome to bring your own packed lunch and there will be some seating available.
PARKING: Free parking available,. If the onsite car park is full when you arrive please park on the local streets - bearing in mind it is a residential area.
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Blue Matchbox will be displaying and selling pottery supplies throughout the morning and at lunchtime in the building. Blue Matchbox are once again offering the option for attendees to pre-order with free delivery via their website. Simply choose βclick and collectβ when ordering, add a note saying βFOR DCPG OPEN DAYβ and collect your purchases on arrival: Bluematchbox Potters Supplies.
The Dacorum and Chiltern Potters Guild is a charity organisation run by volunteers with an interest in (and passion for) clay. If you would like to join or volunteer to take part in one of our events visit our website for membership information:
Don't miss out on this amazing event! Mark your calendars for **Sun 19th October 2025** and get ready to enjoy the creativity at the second Potters Open Day 2025 - IN PERSON. We can't wait to see you there!
Agenda
π: 09:30 AM - 09:45 AM
Start time, audience seated.
π: 09:45 AM - 10:00 AM
Welcome, general house keeping and introductions.
π: 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM
Lecture
π: 11:00 AM - 11:45 AM
Tea break
π: 11:45 AM - 01:45 PM
First demo
π: 01:35 PM - 02:45 PM
Lunch and raffle
π: 02:45 PM - 04:45 PM
Second demo
π: 04:45 PM - 05:00 PM
Close and thanks from Jackie Harrop, DCPG Chair.
Event Venue & Nearby Stays
Trestle Theatre Co Ltd, Trestle Arts Base, Russet Drive, St Albans, Hertfordshire AL4 0JQ, UK, United Kingdom
GBP 11.55 to GBP 49.46











