Potter's Kiln Tour Inspires New Generation

A novice potter has successfully completed an ambitious challenge, visiting all of Stoke-on-Trent's preserved bottle kilns. Thomas Carnes, from Stone, concluded his tour at the Moorcroft site in Cobridge, where he created miniature replicas of the kilns he had visited.

Carnes's project has resonated with enthusiasts and industry newcomers, such as 25-year-old potter Francesca Harthill. She found the social media documentation of his journey "lovely" for spotlighting each historical kiln. Harthill noted that Carnes's effort helps audiences understand the detailed craft of pottery beyond simple modeling.

The iconic bottle kilns, once numbering around 2,000, once defined Stoke-on-Trent's skyline. Today, only 47 examples from the late 18th and 19th centuries remain preserved as listed buildings, with the Moorcroft kiln being particularly well-maintained.

Carnes found that engaging with people connected to the industry revealed deep-seated passion and shared memories of factory work and local sites. He believes pottery is a "passion" that runs "in your blood."

Harthill, who began her career in ceramics around 2021, acknowledged the industry's challenges with recent factory closures. She expressed optimism, noting that interest in ceramics is growing, boosted by platforms like social media and television programs.