It’s pretty much impossible to be around the ceramic community in Canada or otherwise without some knowledge of Robin Hopper, either through books or videos or in person. It was earlier on in my clay career that my parents took me on a trip out to visit Robin’s studio in Metchosin on Vancouver Island. To say that it presented me with an idealistic version of life as a potter is to say the least. Robin and his wife Judi Dyelle have likely one of the most impressive studio/gallery/gardens out there. A creative paradise for sure. My own studio reality is a far cry from what I saw there, but the memory still gives me hope of someday moving to better accomodations than my gasoline stained and drafty garage studio.
Robin’s knowledge of ceramics and list of accomplishments is far reaching, his impact on the community far greater than he likely realizes. And so it was with great pleasure that I discovered he had started a blog to share his wealth of knowledge. So I encourage you to take some time to stop by, give him some feedback, have a chat and learn from this contemporary master.
Hi Carole, thanks so much for this post. My very first trip abroad was to Canada and the highlight was visiting Robin's studio and bringing home one of his Clematis pots:^)