David Binns

Following a childhood passion for making, David studied wood/metal/ceramics at Manchester Polytechnic. Following an introduction to traditional Japanese architecture, David developed a broader fascination for Japanese craft and aesthetics, which led him to write his dissertation on Raku.  Researching the Raku process in turn, led to meeting master Raku maker David Roberts who offered David an opportunity to work with him.

Shortly after graduating in 1982, David took on a part-time teaching post at Wrexham School of Art. After nine years teaching 3D Design at Wrexham, he moved to the University of Central Lancashire, in Preston, where he ran the BA and MA Ceramics programmes, until retiring in 2020.

David’s current ceramic practice involves making glazed vessel forms, carved from solid blocks of porcelain or stoneware clay. The process and tools he uses are predominately wood-working chisels and blades – heavily informed by his initial love of woodworking. His work partly inspired by the contrasting influences of natural landscape and contemporary architecture, is also shaped by his deep respect for Japanese aesthetics.

David has exhibited his work widely both within the UK and abroad. His work is featured in many international public and private collections, and he is a member of the UNESCO International Academy of Ceramics.

Since retiring from 40 years teaching, as Professor Emeritus of Contemporary Ceramics, David now makes his work at his home studio in a small village in North Wales.