Honouring Mary Wondrausch

Chris Ewbank remembers one of Surrey’s most remarkable artists.

- Christopher Ewbank

THE passing away of well known Surrey resident Mary Wondrausch OBE, on Boxing Day last year, created a high demand from those wishing to own a piece of her work. The exhibition of her work at The Watts Gallery in February, subsequently sold out very quickly.

Surrey lost one of its most colourful and remarkable artists, when the Compton-based potter and painter died at the age of 93. Mary’s work is renowned globally, specifically for her slip-decorated earthenware, some of which is held at the Victoria and Albert Museum in London, and in a myriad of private collections all over the world.

She was awarded an OBE in 2000, when she was recognised for services to the arts, and was an honorary fellow of the Craft Potters’ Association.