Ceremaics celebration of Dearne Valley's once thriving potteries industry

'The Forgotten Potteries of the Dearne Valley' exhibition has opened at The Cooper Gallery in Barnsley. Barnsley Museums' Tracey Hebron with some of the contemporary pieces commisioned for the show. Pictures: Scott Merrylees

A new exhibition tells the largely forgotten tale of the Dearne Valley's once thriving potteries scene.

Yorkshire artist Adele Howitt’s work is on display at Cooper Gallery, following a Heritage Lottery funded commission to produce new work on the theme of the ‘Forgotten Potteries of the Dearne Valley’ by the Dearne Valley Landscape Partnership.

South Yorkshire’s potteries once rivalled those famously produced in Stoke-on-Trent, with over 20 potteries employing thousands of local people whose wares were shipped worldwide during the 19th century.

Ms Howitt said: “Researching the potteries of the Dearne Valley has influenced my re-interpretation of the landscape. The extensive pattern, symbols and aspirational landscapes found in these potteries are combined to create high end table decorations through to utilitarian platters and tea services.”

A selection of historic pots produced in the area accompany Ms Howitt’s new work, featuring items loaned by pottery expert Graham Oliver, former guitarist of the heavy metal band Saxon.