For over three decades William Plumptre has built a reputation as a leading British ceramicist. His works embody a refined classicism, emphasizing simple yet powerful forms, specialising in the Anglo-Japanese tradition pioneered by Shoji Hamada and Bernard Leach.
Plumptre’s pieces feature soft, nature-inspired colours—ranging from tenmoku browns and copper reds to creamy whites and cobalt blues—carefully chosen to complement the understated decoration. This thoughtful minimalism preserves the elegance and purity of each form. Central to his practice is a deep personal dedication, with Plumptre meticulously overseeing every detail to achieve harmony in both form and colour.
After studying at Chelsea School of Art, Plumptre then trained in Japan under Tatsuzo Shimaoka, a Japanese "Living National Treasure," becoming the only British apprentice in his workshop. He then returned to England in 1987, setting up studios in the Lake District, including his current workshop in Witherslack. Plumptre's pieces are exhibited across the UK, the US, and Europe, and gained particular acclaim when one of his plates was gifted by the British Government to the Emperor of Japan.
Plumptre’s pieces feature soft, nature-inspired colours—ranging from tenmoku browns and copper reds to creamy whites and cobalt blues—carefully chosen to complement the understated decoration. This thoughtful minimalism preserves the elegance and purity of each form. Central to his practice is a deep personal dedication, with Plumptre meticulously overseeing every detail to achieve harmony in both form and colour.
After studying at Chelsea School of Art, Plumptre then trained in Japan under Tatsuzo Shimaoka, a Japanese "Living National Treasure," becoming the only British apprentice in his workshop. He then returned to England in 1987, setting up studios in the Lake District, including his current workshop in Witherslack. Plumptre's pieces are exhibited across the UK, the US, and Europe, and gained particular acclaim when one of his plates was gifted by the British Government to the Emperor of Japan.
