River Torridge clay given life in a new exhibition at The Burton

A new exhibition of ceramics made from water and river clay collected from the banks of the Torridge has gone on display at the Burton Art Gallery and Museum in Bideford.

Water Vessels – Sampling the Torridge has been created by South West artist Rupert Johnstone, who was commissioned by the Burton in 2022 to respond to the environment and climate change through the medium of ceramics.

The result is a fascinating and striking exhibition of clay pots with significant local relevance.

The exhibition is the culmination of a year-long project which saw Rupert walk the length of the River Torridge collecting water and clay from which to make a series of ceramic vessels and glazes.

What emerges is a document of his journey along the banks of the river and a poignant commentary on the environment, geology and ecology of the River Torridge from its source in North West Devon to the mouth of the estuary.

Based just outside Exeter, Rupert is an artist, maker and teacher who works principally in clay and exhibits his work widely in craft galleries both within the UK and abroad.

The exhibition runs until March 3 and entry is free.

The gallery is open Monday to Saturday from 10am to 4pm and on Sunday from 11am to 4pm.