A Ron Dearing UTC sixth form student is following his pottery passion after he was inspired by the school’s ever-expanding creative curriculum.
Year 13 student Matthew Bestley, 17, realised his love of pottery when a kiln, a piece of machinery which turns clay into ceramic at high temperature, was installed at STEAM Studios, the school’s creative hub.
Since then, he has experimented with various different techniques, clay, glaze and designs, and even bought his own potter’s wheel for his home, which saw him dedicate hours every day to pottery during the summer holidays.
Matthew, who is studying Fine Art, 3D Design and Graphics at the employer-led school, has now set up his own Instagram page – @bestleyceramics – which he hopes will eventually develop into a business as he strives to become a potter.
He is looking into the possibility of studying pottery at the dedicated Clay College in Stoke-on-Trent when he leaves Ron Dearing next year, while also considering a Level 4 Foundation course in Art.
Matthew said: “I’m obsessed with pottery and, since I started using clay, I haven’t stopped. The potter’s wheel sparked my interest and I love that you don’t have full control over what you’re creating.
“You never know how it will come out of the kiln because the glaze looks completely different before and after firing. It could have a crack in it and might not be useable, which makes it more special when it works.
“I’ve made vases, jugs and some teapots but I want to move onto more sculptural work because I’m interested in the art side of it, rather than the functionality. There is always something new to learn.
“I have 128 followers on Instagram and some are other potters from the local area. I love it when they like my work and posts, and I’ve had a few messages from them offering tips and advice.
“I love the creative choices at Ron Dearing and there is so much scope to learn. Everyone is so knowledgeable.”
Matthew is inspired by Japanese pottery and his work is now helping to inspire other creative students as they draw his creations for their own projects.
He also shares his skills and expertise with the younger students at the UTC’s Pottery Club as well as helping the Creative Technicians loading and unloading the kiln.
The Pottery Club is part of the school’s extensive Enrichment programme which encourages students to learn new skills and embrace new experiences outside the classroom.
Matthew has also attended dedicated pottery festivals in Wakefield and Penrith, taking inspiration from professional potters and sharing expertise.
Ron Dearing UTC Creative Director Lynn Garland-Collins said: “Matthew has an incredible talent and is very gifted in the art of pottery, as well as his wider creative studies.
“He has made some fantastic pieces and really embraced the opportunities STEAM Studios is able to offer our students.
“A number of staff have bought pieces that Matthew has made. He has a very creative and bright future ahead of him and we can’t wait to see where his talents take him.”
Matthew plans to sell his work at the school’s Christmas Market at STEAM Studios on November 24, from 10am to 2pm. The event is open to members of the public and free to attend.
