Greg Crowe at Commonage Pottery: A Weekend of Exploration and Mastery

By Japneet Kaur Keith

Over the weekend of May 31st & June 1st 2025, Commonage Pottery was privileged to host renowned ceramic artist Greg Crowe for a two-day immersive workshop series. Held at our pottery studio nestled within the Happs Wines venue in Dunsborough. Both sessions were fully booked, drawing a community of potters eager to deepen their practice and explore new techniques.

Saturday’s workshop, Altered Forms & Textures on the Pottery Wheel, offered participants the chance to step beyond the round pot. Greg shared a wide range of techniques—altering and faceting forms, explaining turning on chucks, and applying textured surfaces—that sparked curiosity and encouraged play. From refining rims to exploring expressive surface treatment, potters were guided to reshape their wheel-throwing habits and open new creative pathways.

Sunday’s session, Pots That Pour, focused on the functional elegance of pouring vessels. Greg led participants through the intricacies of throwing jugs, challenging the throwing skills & handle making demonstrations, and refining the form of jugs and pourers. As always, he taught with clarity and generosity, sharing every detail with patience and precision. His thoughtful instruction helped attendees focus not just on form, but on the feel and balance of each vessel—a true exercise in elevating functional ware.

Greg’s teaching style is as generous as it is thorough. He has a way of making the complex feel approachable, offering insights gained through decades of experience with a spirit of humility and encouragement. Whether demonstrating a precise throwing technique or offering subtle adjustments to a student’s form, Greg’s presence at the wheel is grounded and kind.

It was a joy to witness the energy in the studio, the laughter, the quiet focus, and the shared sense of achievement among those who took part. Many attendees walked away with not only improved techniques but also fresh inspiration and a renewed appreciation for the process.

We’re so grateful to Greg for his time and for sharing his remarkable knowledge with such warmth. And a heartfelt thanks to all who attended—your enthusiasm and openness made the weekend something truly special.