The Journal of Australian Ceramics Vol 48 No 3 November 2009

Well read
Perth Studio Potters -
the first SO years
by Janet Kovesi Watt
Published by Perth Studio Potters Inc., 2009
Paperback, 90 pages, $25
ISBN 9780646513898
Available for purchase by contacting
Dianne Sigel
E: diannesigel@hotmail.com
T: 089447 9179
Perth Studio Potters Inc.
1 Burt St, Cottesloe WA 6011
Just over 50 years ago, in 1957, a group of enthusiastic potters gathered together to form the Perth
Potters Club. For several years they worked together in their humble beginnings, a little borrowed boat
shed on the Swan River foreshore. In 1963, after much dedicated fund-raising, they had saved enough
to purchase a small run-down weatherboard cottage at 1 Burt Street, Cottesloe. By 1983 they had
become the proud owners of a transformed fully functional clubhouse with spacious studio workroom
and potters gallery and the new name of Perth Studio Potters Inc.
To celebrate its 50th anniversary, Perth Studio Potters appointed Janet Kovesi Watt, club historian,
with the responsibil ity of compiling the history of its first 50 years. Janet has been a member for over 40
years, so she has drawn on the carefully preserved records of the club to tell the story of its development
and achievements and its relations with the wider world of ceramics and craft, both in Australia and
overseas. Many eminent local and international potters have visited the club to demonstrate and pass on
their skills. The history book is generously illustrated with photographs of people and pots, and should
appeal to anyone with an interest in the social and artistic history of Western Australia .
Perth Studio Potters today are extremely fortunate to have excellent premises which they own
outright. The group's role is that of community arts development and it is run by a vibrant, energetic,
outward-looking committee of volunteers. Their new gallery and showroom was re-Iaunched as 'Burt
Street Gallery' in October 2008. They provide a dedicated team of qualified teachers with a broad range
of skills including project management and youth work, fostering new ceramicists and running classes
for adu lts, children and those with disabilities. The classes aim to spread a love of pottery as widely as
possible in the community.
A big thank you to all PSP members and the many volunteer helpers who have contributed their time,
money and equipment to making Perth Studio Potters the success it is today. This book is dedicated to
all of you.
Rev iew by Judith Paisley
THE JOURNAL OF AUSTRALIAN CERAMICS NOVEMBER 2009 101