David White was very keen that the skills and techniques of the craft potter should not become lost or neglected. It was David’s wish therefore, that a bursary scheme be set up to allow ceramics students studying to develop their skills. He had a zest and passion for ceramics, and it is hoped that in offering these bursary awards, David Constantine White is helping to continue supporting innovation in pottery.
The bursary was awarded to Wilma Stone.
Wilma Stone was the first recipient for funding – a mature student from Batley School of Art, who joined a group of potters on a trip to China, where she was able to study at the Sanbao Ceramics Institute in China’s ‘porcelain capital’ Jingdezhen, a city in the Jiangxi province south of Shanghai. Pieces made there from the time of the 13th Century Yuan Dynasty founded by Kublai Khan are highly prized by collectors. Wilma was able to study many of the techniques pioneered back then and still in use today.
When she returned to England, Wilma came to Sue Turner’s studio in Hebden Bridge to talk about her experience to the new residents of Brier Hey along with a large group of David’s friends. “I had a real feeling that David hasn’t gone,” says Sue. “That he’s still offering a helping hand – something he himself never had.”