IT’S the end of an era at Gwili Pottery – but the start of another.

On Christmas Eve, owner Chris Latter will be closing the door on the well-known workshop and gallery in Pontarsais for the last time after more than 20 years.

She’s not going too far however, and the new year will see her launch another venture, Geler Pottery, in Llangeler, near Llandysul.

Geler Pottery will open for orders on January 15, 2019, with the new, purpose-built and accessible workshop and gallery opening to the public in the spring.

While Chris will be introducing new and fresh designs to the Geler Pottery range, she’s keen to emphasise that she’ll still be producing the existing Gwili Pottery designs that have made the pottery’s name so distinctive and loved.

She said: “At Geler we will continue to produce our Gwili ranges – the only difference for the customer will be that it will be signed with Geler, rather than Gwili, Pottery underneath. So any customers who want a piece of signed Gwili Pottery needs to get their orders to us by December 24.”

Chris joined Gwili Pottery as a part-time painter in 1997 but a few years later took over the business with two other colleagues, before going on to run the pottery alone.

Gwili Pottery was already known for producing quality, unique ceramics and it retains that reputation, with distinctive, colourful items made by hand. Their designs are inspired by wildlife, animals, nature and much more.

Customers can also commission bespoke pieces made to their own specifications. In addition, Chris now runs paint-your-own sessions and pot-throwing lessons. All this is set to continue under the new Geler Pottery venture – alongside some exciting new ideas to be launched in the new year.

Meanwhile of course, it’s business as usual for Chris in Pontarsais until the run up to Christmas.

She said: “We’re not slowing down at all, quite the opposite in fact. We are busy with lessons and orders and over Autumn half-term will be open to entertain the whole family with the ‘Paint your Own Pottery’ sessions – always book ahead though.

“Before Christmas we’ll also be adding to the range of gifts you can buy here – with jewellery and more available - so do pop in to get some inspiration.”