• Simon Kidd

    Teacher
    he/him

    Simon Kidd is a visual artist and potter whose work bridges sculptural expression and functional ceramics. His sculptural objects respond to the unique landscapes that inspire him, integrating place, form, and materials, while his simple thrown pots are crafted with everyday use in mind. After studying ceramics at Central Saint Martins in London, Simon honed his craft working in studios across the city and exhibiting in renowned galleries, including a solo show at Erskine Hall & Coe on Old Bond Street. Since returning to Ireland in 2021, Simon has made his home on a small island off West Cork, where his practice centers on research and experimentation with natural materials and atmospheric firing techniques.

    As a teacher, Simon emphasizes learning through exploration and mistakes, guiding students through the process rather than taking over their work. He values the raw expression found in the first pots beginners create, encouraging individuality in every piece. Simon specializes in throwing, hand-building, mold-making, glazing, and atmospheric firings, sharing his expertise through intensive weekend courses and Throwing Shapes island retreats. His work has been showcased in exhibitions like the Ceramics Ireland Triennial at the National Design and Craft Gallery, and he has received honors including the Design Crafts Council Ireland Future Makers Award in 2023 and the Rosalind Stracey Ceramic Residency in London.

    Fun fact: Simon lives on an island with just 100 residents and has recently discovered a love for the barrel saunas along Ireland's west coast. Follow on Instagram @simon.kidd or visit simonkiddceramics.com / simonkiddpottery.com 

Student Feedback

  • ★★★★★
    Throwing Shapes is an amazing facility for Dublin! The classes are great and the membership is fantastic. I did the intensive weekend throwing class with teacher Simon and loved it so much I started a membership at the studio. It’s very accessible for beginners, great range of equipment and everyone is really helpful.
    Aoife C
  • ★★★★★
    Simon was our teacher and he did a great job over the weekend. It was a relaxed atmosphere, whilst at the same time being very structured and timely. Simon was very informative, and I picked up some new tips and was able to experiment with new methods. It was also nice to learn a little bit about the range of equipment and the whole process of making pottery
    Linda
  • ★★★★★
    I took the intensive weekend throwing course with Simon. The course was perfect for really getting some good time on the wheel as well as learning lots. Simon was brilliant at swapping between group teaching and individual tutelage meaning it didn't matter that it was mixed levels of previous experience.
    Catherine S