In every genre there are Masters that define that very genre – they don’t come often, but their impact is monumental and influential for not only their time, but felt in generations to come.

I have had the extreme pleasure of having the privilege of knowing Andrew Walford for the past 8 years and being a lover and collector of the works of a man who the Japanese have monikered ZenZulu – and respected as one of the few MASTER Japanese style ceramicist and potter in the West.

Andrew lives in an area just between Durban and Hillcrest called Shongweni.

Andrew Walford’s studio resides on his premises which is an excerpt from Nirvana. Lush bush, koi ponds, chickens running a-scampering around… With the most gorgeous views. Andrew recalls a time when he settled there and there were no real roads as to speak of and nearby Hillcrest was more like a 1 horse town.

Nestled within his workshop is his handmade kiln where he fires his works at 1300 degrees Celsius for 3 days at a time_. During this process the entire kiln changes shapes from the *intense heat and pressure within.

He digs his own clay, makes his renown glazes… The man is a true master of his trade in every sense of the word and renown throughout the world.

Take a look and see why…

Just a few examples of the masterpieces that Andrew is famous for.

And all of this… just under our proverbial noses!

Andrew will be exhibiting his works this weekend Sunday 16th May 2010 and celebrating the release of his book : A Potter’s Tale in Africa written by Neil Wright.

Details to follow – don’t miss it – he is not here that often and tomorrow looks like a wonderful day to enjoy the majesty of the Cape in Fraschhoek. See you there.