The Renowned Potters Cottage
The famed Potters Cottage operated from 1958 to 2004.
The original potters were Phyl Dunn, Artur Halpern, Gus McLaren, Reg Preston and Charles Wilton who decided to set up a cooperative in 1958 with the aim of generating more interest in their handmade Australian pottery. Together with local architect and businessman John Hipwell they converted ‘Moonlight Cottage’ (a small wattle and daub building just over the bridge in North Warrandyte). They registered the name ‘Potters Cottage,’ had an opening by Dame Mabel Brooks and within two years were so successful they needed to find more space.
In 1961 they moved to larger premises in Jumping Creek Road and three more potters, Elsa Arden, Sylvia Halpern and Kate Janeba joined them. After the new premises were opened for business by Professor Zelman Cowan, Potters Cottage became ever more popular and a destination of choice for weekend visitors. Devonshire teas were served, a plant nursery established, and the original building extended with purpose-built galleries. Potter Peter Laycock joined the group.
In the late 1960s production changed from earthenware and commercial glazes to stoneware with locally sourced clays and glazes. By its third decade it was wildly popular due to a craft revival, handmade was sought after and at weekends the place was packed with visitors looking for production ware or decorative pieces from artists across the state.
Exhibitions were an important feature, and a Potters Cottage Prize was established in 1965. Many of Australia’s foremost potters have won the prize over the years such as Les Blakeborough, Peter Rushforth, Milton Moon, H.R. Hughan and Vic Greenaway.
It was an inspirational place and requests for classes led to the Potters School being established in 1969 with many well-known professional potters starting their careers there.
Once the school was built, the afternoon teas were extended, and a restaurant built. From 1973 John and Margaret James took over management and jazz and wine feature nights and wedding receptions that utilised the lovely gardens contributed to its success
By its third decade it was wildly popular due to a craft revival, handmade was sought after and at weekends the place was packed with visitors looking for production ware or decorative pieces from artists across the state.
However in 2002 the complex was sold and with declining patronage the end came in 2004. After 45 years of supporting local potters and artists the gallery closed its doors. It was a loss to the community; the venture had epitomised its close-knit hardworking nature, supported local artists, provided inspiration and work, and Warrandyte residents were very proud of its contribution to the artistic history of the town and Australia.
©2023 Text by Valerie Polley. Photos: Warrandyte Historical Society and Valerie Polley