Penny Simpson started making pots in Japan and is the author of The Japanese Pottery Handbook (Kodansha 1979). After an apprenticeship at Dartington Pottery, she set up her own workshop in Moretonhampstead, on the edge of Dartmoor.
She continues to have links with Japan, where she exhibits regularly, and promotes exhibitions of Japanese potters in the UK.
Her work is centred around making pots for food, though she also makes planters and tiles.
She uses a red earthenware clay, chosen for its warm colour and ovenproof qualities.
The pots are decorated with coloured slips and glazes. Design motifs are taken from nature - especially from plants.
She has always been a keen amateur cook and enjoys an eclectic mix of food from around the world. Her food is for the family or dinner party table, using fresh and affordable ingredients - locally sourced if possible. Using her own pots and pots from many other potters which she has collected over the years, she presents her food to look and taste good.
Eating with friends and family is one of the most important pleasures in life.
Penny also enjoys walking, traveling, reading, watching films and sitting around in cafes.
