Estuary views and Johns’ deli croissants herald the beginning of a perfect day for internationally renowned artist Sandy Brown
Tell us about yourself and what you do in the county.
I am an artist working in ceramics, sculpture, and paintings. I am known for my exuberant, expressive use of clay and colour. I make many things, ranging from mugs and dinner plates to a full size ceramic Temple building, and the tallest ceramic sculpture in the world, Earth Goddess, sited in St Austell town centre.
Where in Devon do you live?
I live in Appledore, overlooking the estuary.
How long have you been here and what brought you here?
Originally, I came here as a child on holiday, to Instow. The very first art gallery I ever went in was the Burton Art Gallery in Bideford, and I remember clearly how much I loved the full-bellied Harvest Jugs which were then in the entrance foyer. I stood and looked at them for hours, loving the fat rounded forms and the fresh lively scraffito.
I have lived here for nearly all my adult life, and what brought me here was the clay. I was previously living in Hampshire, and looking for a good stoneware clay. I looked at the Ordnance Survey map to find clay pits, and found the one in Meeth, which has a wonderful all-purpose high-firing clay. So, we moved to Devon! The clay is sensual to the touch and also takes my coloured glazes beautifully.
What's the best thing about living in Devon?
The people. I have found warmth, friendship, openness, and a huge respect for creativity and making things.
And the worst?
Can’t think of anything!
Describe your ideal day out in Devon.
I look out over the estuary as I have my breakfast of fresh croissants from the best deli in the world, Johns, which is just around the corner, then I walk to my studio and play with clay, relishing the sense of touch and the immediacy of it. I am currently working for a major solo exhibition of new work in my regular gallery in Germany.
Then I have time for an hour or so’s pilot gig rowing if the tide is right. It’s a great way to keep fit! In the evening I go to one of the several really good pubs in Appledore which have great live music; there are some very good musicians living here.
What is your favourite Devon journey, by any mode of transport?
Rowing in the pilot gig boat up and down the Torridge and Taw estuaries.
What is your favourite view in the county?
That from my living room window, over the tidal river Torridge. It is always changing from the river basin being almost empty with the cormorants stretching their wings as they stand on the sand, to a few hours later being completely full so that huge ships can come in.
What is your favourite month to be in Devon?
I like the winter months as the light is so good; the estuary is a huge mirror reflecting and bouncing and amplifying the light.
What gift from Devon would you give to a friend?
A piece of my ceramic art, made in Devon from Devon clay.
What three words best describe Devon?
Friendly, welcoming, creative.
