Melissa Graham is a studio potter living in Tarring, Worthing.

Melissa first studied at West Dean College of Arts and Conservation. She has subsequently been tutored and mentored by local potter John Evans (widely known for his fume-fired raku work) whose support, knowledge and wide acquaintance in the world of ceramics, has been invaluable.

Melissa’s primary focus is functional pots, as she finds a great sense of human connection in using hand-made pots to cook and serve food and longs to pass this on. She is fascinated by the way a hand-made pot can surprise the hand by its weight, shape or balance; and how a small personal touch on a pot can feel like intimate communication. However, as experience of using the clay suggests possibilities, there are also some pots which are more whimsical or exploratory.

Melissa has chosen to call this exhibition ‘Moments in Clay’ as this is how she experiences the creative process.