MEET LOCAL CERAMIST - JANE BRIDGER

We’ve long been admirers of Jane Bridgers ceramics, the local artist creates fluid shapes that conjure up a sense of calm and relaxation. Her craft is the result of years of practice, each piece she makes is completely unique and made in her Tunbridge Wells studio. We talk to her about lockdown life and what inspires her work…

How long have you been a resident in Tunbridge Wells?

I was born in Tonbridge and moved to Tunbridge Wells 45 years ago. Our first home here was in Arundel Road, a huge house that we renovated. With a tiny garden and three children, we bought our current house in 1981 in Lipscombe Road, which has a very large garden and access to Hilbert Recreation Ground, so I have no intention of leaving it.

What were your first impressions of the town?

Tunbridge Wells was where my mother used to shop for new clothes and I always found the rare visits exciting as a child. I have seen the town change so much over the years but I love it. Its closeness to the country, Dover, airports and London make it a perfect location. I love the history and the Pantiles is a jewel in its crown. I do find the upper part of town a sad place these days but I guess that is like most high streets.

What have you been doing in lockdown?

I have spent lockdown with my husband and he is still alive! I have done loads of gardening and we are growing many vegetables. I repainted the kitchen, did well overdue spring cleaning, made scrubs for the NHS and clapped for them on Thursday nights, updated my website, began new work in the pottery, and discovered Zoom like the rest of the nation.

What are you missing the most?

Like everyone else, I miss my family and friends and having hugs with them. I also miss being unable to go to London town, my spiritual home.

We love your pottery, when did you start making?

I first went to an Adult Education class in Tunbridge Wells in 1978 as they had a creche there at that time. I did my City and Guilds in Ceramics and design at Tonbridge Adult Education and began teaching back at Tunbridge Wells adult Ed in 1989, where I taught for 30 years and loved every minute. 

What’s involved in the process and what would you advise to anyone who’s looking to start making?

The possibilities when using clay are endless, hand building, thrown work, sculpture, installations, etc. Going to a class is the best way to start and there are several locally. The Pottery Throwdown is a great show on Channel 4 and gives a good insight into what is involved. It is definitely not the easiest craft to start at home as the setup and equipment is quite expensive.

What inspires your pieces?

I’ve always loved the technical side of things and make all my own glazes and have experimented with different types of firing. I love throwing on the wheel and sticking with classical forms. My history element of City and Guilds was Persian ceramics and they still inspire me.

What are you most looking forward to once we’re out of lockdown?

Getting back to working in my co-operative galleries and taking part in exhibitions, hopefully, Society of Women Artists (I am a member) at the Mall Galleries in September, Grierson Art Show in Cranbrook in October and Art in Clay, Farnham in November.

Most importantly, where can we buy a piece?

I have a small showroom at home and welcome visitors by appointment, after Lockdown!

You can also buy my pieces at Chalk Gallery, Lewes and Artspring Gallery, Tonbridge. I have a small selection available in my online shop, click HERE to view.

You can also follow Jane on Instagram HERE