Pottery (Barbados)

I saw beautifully crafted plates and cups from Hamilton Pottery while staying at Eco Lifestyle + Lodge (recommended in this blog), and they sparked my interest in Barbados’ pottery scene. In the process, I discovered three incredibly different styles of pottery, ranging from the simple to ornate, and I couldn’t help but purchase something within each style!

Jamila Abena

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Jamila Abena’s work is the simplest and most true to the clay’s natural state. Using only her hands, she crafts one-of-a-kind beautifully elegant and minimalist works of art. Her work reflects her personality; she is authentic, unassuming and bold. Although relative new to the pottery scene in Barbados, her interest was ignited in 2018, Jamila's work is unique, fresh and commanding of attention. I have no doubt whatsoever that one day, I will say "I own one of Jamila's original pieces" while her one-of-a-kind pieces are coveted on the island.

Hamilton Pottery

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Hamilton Pottery, made with indigenous red clay from Barbados, has a little more flare and color, but there is still a noticeable simplicity and elegance to the pieces. Hamilton, the owner and potter, has been in the pottery business for over 40 years and is a wonderful person to talk to about the history of pottery in Barbados dating back to the Amerindian civilization. From Hamilton, I learned about Chalky Mount, a small rural village located in parish of St. Andrews, considered the heart of pottery in Barbados.

Earthworks Pottery

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Earthworks Pottery, founded in 1983 by Goldie Spieler and now owned by her son David Spieler, is very different from Jamila and Hamilton’s pottery. Earthwork Pottery pieces are playfully fanciful, cheerful and incredibly colorful. The operation is also more established and bigger. There somehow seems to be an Earthworks piece all over the island. From flower vases at restaurants, to hotel bathroom sinks, and store signs, Earthwork pieces are easily identified. I own two cute little flower vases which I absolutely adore.

Cover photo: Steve Potter, steve.porter@projectliveearth.org, Barbados

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