The Judges
Mags and Matt Cuttle
I attended an art foundation course at Oxford Polytechnic when I was 19, and abandoned it to study neuroscience at UCL. Next I studied for a PhD at Southampton University, where I met Matt who I went on to marry! We left science for teaching and later I learned throwing from Jerzy Mazur (17years ago), going on to take courses at the Leach Pottery in St.Ives.
Now, together with Matt, I run Mags Pottery in Oxford, teaching throwing and making pots to sell.
My love of teaching students to throw and my love of throwing itself, supports my growth as a person and as an artist.
Jerzy Mazur is a Polish-born ceramic artist based in Southampton, UK. Originally trained as a sculptor under Professor Franciszek Duszeńko at the Academy of Fine Arts in Gdańsk, he now works exclusively in ceramics. His abstract, textured vessels blend sculptural form with functional design, exploring rhythm, pattern, and memory. A member of London Potters since 2023, his work reflects a deep engagement with material and process.
Yoko Romita
Born in the UK with Japanese-Italian heritage, draws on a rich cultural background that informs her visual aesthetic and creative approach. She began as a self-taught potter before studying ceramics in Barcelona, later apprenticing with potter Jo Osborne in the UK.
An artist’s residency at Guldagergaard Ceramic Centre in Denmark deepened her interest in wood-firing and material experimentation. Now based in Southampton with a home studio, Yoko draws inspiration from nature, food culture, and East Asian pottery. Travel and meeting fellow potters continue to expand her knowledge and nourish her evolving ceramic practice.
Terms and Conditions
Age: Applicants must be 18 years or older.
Professional Potter Status: Professional potters (those earning a living from pottery) are not eligible.
Honesty and Confidentiality:
Must be truthful in their application and able to keep all information about the application and program confidential, whether selected or not.
Entry methods: Please complete the online form application to compete.
Prizes: There’s a one-month time limit from the winner’s announcement for claiming the prize, and runners-up may be offered the prize if it remains unclaimed within this period.
The prize vouchers will be ready for collection from My Pottery in The Marlands Shopping Centre, 1st Floor. Cash alternatives will not be offered.
Closing Date: Saturday 27th July 2025, midnight.
Entries must be received before the closing date, and late entries may be disqualified.
Judging Criteria & Process:
Judging will be conducted by a panel of experienced potters and/or event organisers. Entries will be evaluated based on creativity, technique, and overall presentation. The judges’ decisions are final and not subject to appeal.
Disqualification Clause:
The organisers reserve the right to disqualify any entrant who provides false information, breaches competition rules, behaves inappropriately during the event, or otherwise disrupts the integrity of the competition.
Right to Cancel or Modify the Event:
The organisers reserve the right to cancel, postpone, or amend the competition or its rules at any time, without prior notice, due to circumstances beyond their control. In such cases, reasonable efforts will be made to notify entrants.
Ownership of Artwork/Creations:
All pottery created during the competition will be recycled, therefore no ownership will apply to My Pottery Ltd or to the competitors.
Travel and Accommodation:
All travel, accommodation, and other costs associated with participation are the sole responsibility of the entrant, unless explicitly stated otherwise.
Photography Disclaimer: We may at times take photos during the competition that we may use for future promotional material, either online, on social media or in print. We will ask permission beforehand.
Personal information: According to the UK GDPR guidelines the submission of your personal information will be protected by the organiser My Pottery Ltd.
By entering the competition, entrants consent to being added to My Pottery’s mailing list. You may unsubscribe at any time by following the unsubscribe link in our emails or by emailing us at mypotterysouthampton@gmail.com
We will never share your information with third parties without your consent.
Liability:
Organisers will not be liable for loss, damage, or injury related to the competition or prize.
Health and Safety:
Participants should be aware of the risks associated with clay dust, sharp tools, and electrical equipment. Proper hand hygiene, including washing and moisturising, is crucial. Additionally, participants should be mindful of posture and take breaks to prevent aches and pains from prolonged throwing on the wheel.