John Maltby 1936-2020

John Maltby (1936–2020) was a British ceramicist whose work evolved from functional pottery into bold, sculptural ceramics that redefined contemporary studio ceramics. Trained under Bernard Leach and later working at David Leach’s workshop in Devon, Maltby initially followed the Anglo-Oriental pottery tradition. However, from the 1990s onward, his work took a dramatic turn towards abstraction, marking the most significant and celebrated phase of his career.

His later sculptural ceramics moved away from traditional functional forms, instead embracing symbolism, mythology, and storytelling. Inspired by ancient art, tribal figures, and architectural structures, he created totemic forms, abstracted human and animal figures, and evocative compositions that felt like relics from an imagined past. Utilizing slab-building techniques and low-temperature firing—partly due to health-related limitations—he developed surfaces rich in texture, often adorned with earthy blacks, ochres, and golds. These elements gave his work a distinct, timeless presence that resonated deeply with collectors and institutions alike.

Maltby’s unique vision and craftsmanship earned his works a place in numerous major public collections, including the Victoria and Albert Museum in London, the Ashmolean Museum in Oxford, and the York Art Gallery. His later pieces, often imbued with a quiet spiritual intensity, are regarded as the pinnacle of his career, showcasing his ability to transform clay into objects of profound symbolic meaning.

Today, Maltby’s later sculptural ceramics remain highly influential and widely admired, securing his legacy as one of Britain’s most inventive and expressive ceramic artists. His work continues to inspire contemporary makers and collectors, standing as a testament to his artistic innovation and deep engagement with form, history, and storytelling.