01/06/2026
Whilst Artist Jack Russell is well known for his depiction of cricketing scenes his portfolio of work is much broader that this.
This painting titled 'End of Shift (Middleport)' was recently painted whilst Jack was visiting the Potteries.
Middleport Pottery remains a significant site in the history of British ceramics, renowned for its role in the pottery industry. Built in 1888 by Burgess & Leigh Ltd, founded by William Leigh and Frederick Rathbone Burgess. It was constructed to streamline production processes and improve working conditions, making it a "model pottery" of its time.
By the early 2000s, Middleport Pottery faced significant challenges due to the poor condition of its buildings and inefficient layout, risking closure. However, it was saved through a restoration project.
Today Middleport Pottery continues to produce Burleigh Pottery, maintaining traditional handcraft methods from the 1880s and the site is well known for having been used for filming "The Great Pottery Throw Down" and featured in "Peaky Blinders."
This nostalgic work by Jack Russell captures the essence of Middleport and is for sale in the gallery.