In 2020, when we launched our online store, Ploughgate Founder Marisa Mauro was exploring unique ways to offer special items for the Ploughgate community. Having always used a butter crock and knowing its value for butter lovers, she called her friend Jeremy Ayers with a question, can you make a butter crock for Ploughgate? Jeremy, a local potter living and working in downtown Waterbury, makes, "pottery that celebrates the joy of eating and drinking and creates a special relationship between the owner and the object." He had never made a butter crock before, but Jeremy designed and created the first unique Ploughgate Butter Crock in 2020. Based on a 19th century utility, these beautiful handmade vessels block out air to keep butter from spoiling while keeping it soft. Since that first collaboration, he has created small batch, limited edition color ways and patterns each year, exclusively available for Ploughgate. For this holiday season, Jeremy designed three unique crocks. We appreciate him for his willingness to collaborate with us—what better time to share more about Jeremy and his craft!

Marisa Mauro: What brought you to pottery?

Jeremy Ayers: I went to art school as a photo major and I was very into photography in high school. In art school I took my first wheelworking class and immediately had a knack for it.  It was almost like I had made pots in a past life or something. My hands knew what to do and I improved very quickly.

Marisa: What has inspired some of your signature designs?

Jeremy: I am into patterns and repeating designs that I have absorbed over the years through my love of art history. I also enjoy playing with the notion of making designs that are symmetrical and then suddenly or surprisingly asymmetrical.

Marisa: Outside of pottery that celebrates eating and drinking, what vessels are you making/exploring and why?

Jeremy: Lately I have been into making lamps. I have a new group every year of different designs and styles. I also have enjoyed making little tiny match holders this fall. They are so tiny and cute!

Marisa: What do you love about your craft?

Jeremy: I love the fact that I am really in control of what I make and that I can do it all myself. I could have turned my business into a factory many times but I never wanted to manage potters. I wanted to make pottery myself.

Marisa: It has been such a pleasure working with you. Do you work with other folks in the same capacity?

Jeremy: Thanks! I love working with you too. I enjoy partnering with restaurants! I have made some really nice serving pieces for Starry Night Cafe and Hen of the Wood over the past couple of years!

If you would like to learn more about Jeremy and his pottery, check out his studio in Waterbury, VT at 18 Elm Street or explore his website. And don't miss his other unique offerings including his dreamy new lamps.