Local Artist Spotlight: Jane Williams

We are halfway through our Local Spotlight series, where we’re introducing our holiday guests and neighbours to the incredible women shaping our local high streets and creative spaces. Today, we are chatting with someone whose passion and creativity add something truly unique to the fabric of North Wales…

If you are a fan of television’s The Great Pottery Throw Down, you might already recognize this week’s featured artist! Meet Jane Williams, the incredibly talented maker behind Jane Makes Pots.

Growing up in a practical farming family in rural North Wales, Jane’s deep connection to the land heavily shapes her craft. Instead of just making art to look at, she channelled that farming practicality into creating beautiful, functional homeware designed for everyday use. From the vibrant shifting colors of local wildflowers to the rugged coastlines and mountains of Gwynedd, Jane spins the essence of the Welsh landscape right into her clay.

We sat down with Jane to chat about her creative inspiration, her absolute perfect day out on the Cambrian Line train, and a hidden gem walk in Dyffryn Ardudwy you won’t want to miss.

Q: The Vision: What inspired you to bring your amazing pottery to life here in North Wales?

A: “Growing up in rural north Wales I suppose it was inevitable that the landscape would feature in my work. I am inspired by the colours of the seasons (snow drops, daffodils, bluebells) And the colours of wild flowers (red valerian, campion and fox gloves) The seashore and mountains are my constant company and whether I am sketching landscapes or drawing the patterns of an interesting shell it is an ever changing but constant source of inspiration. Being from a practical farming family I decided that I would focus on making functional household goods and practical items that people can use in the house.”

Q: The Connection: How does this community or landscape influence the way you work or what you offer?

A: “I sell my work directly to the public at national events but where possible I take part in local art shows such as (Oriel Ty Meirion) and at popular seasonal events such as Christmas fairs (Llanfair and Harlech) These events are well attended and the quality of work for sale is exceptional. I also teach at a local FE college and have run various childrens workshops.”

Q: The Perfect Day: If a holiday guest had just one afternoon to live like a local, where would you tell them to go?

A: “My perfect day would start with a walk down to the train station (in Dyffryn Ardudwy) I would jump on the South bound train and get off in Machynlleth to mooch around the shops and have something delicious to eat. Then on the way home I may stop off in Bermo for a swim (weather dependent) and an ice cream / pint. Then back on the train home.”

Q: The Inside Track: What is a “hidden gem” in our area that visitors often miss?

A: “My hidden gem/ gems would actually be the landscape and walks surrounding the village I grew up in Dyffryn Ardudwy. The road to Bodlyn and the tracks in front/ behind Moelfre and the Ysgethin river. You can experience ALL types of habitat in one walk which I would encourage people to do.  There are also several bronze age cromlechs in the area.”

Q: The Sisterhood: Is there another local woman in business or the arts whose work you truly admire?

A: “There are some incredible female owned businesses in the area (successful cleaning companies, clothing makers, shop owners, chefs and artists) but I feel like I would like to mention Meg Pugh at Pwts in Harlech. She runs an interiors shop in Harlech specialising in selling beautiful homeware. The business has gone online this year and she has been able to source stock (some local and made in Wales) set up a thriving shop ‘front’ in Harlech and also runs and manages a busy online store.”

Want to see what Jane is creating next? You can browse her latest clay creations and follow her pottery journey directly on Instagram at @janemakespots.

It’s independent ventures like Jane makes pots that make our region a year-round destination. Whether you’re visiting for a cozy weekend or a week-long summer escape, our cottages place you right at the heart of our community. Click here to find your stay