The Hills are alive ...

Edit 9. Potter Sam Gordon, Gembrook

A morning coffee overlooking the lush green foliage of the Dandenong Ranges is Sam Gordon’s idea of heaven. It’s here, on the edge of the Bunyip State Forest in Gembrook, that Sam, his wife Carrie, and their three children live in their 100% off-grid home.

Sam, now a highly regarded potter, once planned a career in commerce. Two years into his university degree, however, he realised it wasn’t for him. Having grown up surrounded by potters and artists - and with some encouragement from his father - Sam began his pottery journey in the family business. It would be 20 years before he made the bold move into his own studio, and in 2022 he established POTTR by Sam Gordon.

Located on the family property, Sam often draws inspiration from the colours of the forest and the rich red iron soil of Gembrook. Living off-grid has given him a deeper connection to the seasons, often setting the mood in the studio and shaping the character of his work.

Sam’s work is niche, far removed from the mass-produced mugs and plates found on department store shelves. His pieces are now found in over 140 countries and feature on the tables of multiple Michelin-starred restaurants. He has created works for LVMH, Curtis Stone, Josh Niland, Shannon Bennett, and the Waldorf Astoria-collaborating with chefs who see pottery not as a commodity, but as a vital ingredient in the overall gastronomic experience.

Sam believes there are two types of potters: those who love to glaze and decorate surfaces, and those who love the clay itself, allowing organic glazes and clay to meld together in a minimal approach. For Sam clay is the hero, and he ensures it takes centre stage in every piece.

Check out Sam’s incredible studio and work by visiting @pottersamgordon | www.pottersg.com