The Great Pottery Throw Down

I adore this show. The BBC were silly for letting it go. Thank you C4 for bringing it back. Its wonderful seeing modest people create beautiful things. I still find the crying a little odd though :)

Love this programme. There's something wonderful about people creating things. It's just magic!

There aren't too many tv shows that celebrate craft and skill, but this one definitely does!

Unlike most of competition-based reality tv, this show has no infighting or manufactured drama. Instead what we get is a lovely bunch of people who help and support each other through fascinating creative challenges. What really elevates this contest is the judging - always constructive and positive, with even the negatives delivered with genuine kindness.

The mellow, calm pace allows us to admire the competitors' skillful work. I know next to nothing about pottery, but that doesn't disturb my enjoyment of the show!

This show is just so much fun and enjoyable on all levels - from the joy of seeing creativity take shape from lumps of clay to amazing works of art, to seeing the potters form meaningful connections with each other, to having the pleasure of watching the potters grow in their expertise. What would make this show a perfect 10 would be having Ellie as a permanent host. Such a fun and delightful personality. She will be missed!

Overall I love this show! It is very much in the vein of British Baking Show, it has a homey, comforting feel, like a warm sweater on a cold day. As an amateur potter myself, I find all the different techniques and methods fascinating to watch. But I think anyone would enjoy this. The production has gotten better with each season as far as camera work and sound quality.

Wish I could rate each season separately, cause 1 and 2 are great. Season 3 seems to be succumbing to the industry push to have younger, more attractive contestants, rather than focusing on talent. Leonard, one of the oldest contestants in S03 was sent off by episode 4, even though he was clearly better than several of the other contestants. And the challenges of season 3 seem to be getting more outlandish, choosing to focus on comical moments and goofy outtakes, instead of the actual process and craft of the contestants.

Hoping this doesn't end up just another cutesy reality show. Producers should stay true to what people liked in seasons 1 and 2.