Simon Olley

Man's best dog-friendly ceramic artist.

As a potter and ceramic artist Simon Olley is fascinated by the relationship that develops between man and man’s best friend. His work combines illustration and sgraffito in the commissions of unique pottery based on his customer’s favourite four-legged friends.

Simon also makes work celebrating the exciting (sometimes imaginary) life of his Labrador Retriever (the least demanding of supermodels) in permanent, everlasting ceramic form – so much easier to keep clean than the real thing!

Commission the art of creative custom ceramics – Simon Olley undertakes unique custom ceramics based upon one's lives, loves and special dogs.

“The poses of the dogs are carefully matched to each piece I create, illustrated and carved entirely by hand. I never trace, use stencils, or apply decals — I prefer to work freely and intuitively, allowing as little as possible to come between my brushes, my tools, and the damp clay.”

Engaged with the bond between humans and their canine companions, Simon’s work brings together illustration and sgraffito to create distinctive ceramic commissions that honour his clients’ beloved dogs. Alongside these, he produces studio pieces inspired by the spirited—and sometimes imagined—lives of his own past dogs, preserving their stories in ceramic form.

Simon Olley is a Selected Member of the Craft Potters Association (CPA).

London Potters 33rd Annual Members Exhibition Morley Gallery 2024:
Judges Commendation

London Potters 32nd Annual Members Exhibition Morley Gallery 2023:
Judges Commendation

London Potters 31st Annual Members Exhibition Brixton 2022:
Best Functional Exhibit Award

Contemporary Craft Festival Bovey Tracey 2022:
Best Stand in Show Award

Potfest Glynde 2022: Organisers’ Award
Potfest Glynde 2022: Visitors’ Award

London Potters 30th Annual Members Exhibition Morley Gallery 2017:
Best Decorated Work Award