May 2023
Yannick Fourbet - biography.
Widely recognized as The French Potter, Yannick Fourbet has a background marked by significant achievements in craftsmanship and artistry, shaped by his diverse experiences.
Starting his creative career in France, Yannick initially worked as an antique dealer before taking ownership of Poterie Le Chene Vert, located in Anduze, a region well-known for its pottery. There, he dedicated himself to mastering traditional pottery techniques, earning a reputation as a foremost potter in Anduze and beyond.
His skills and the quality of his pots have gained recognition, leading to opportunities to exhibit at events like the Chelsea Flower Show and Maison Objet in Paris. Additionally, his works found their way into antique markets across southern France and were selected to decorate prestigious locations, including properties associated with Christian Dior andthe Palace of Versailles.
In 2018, Yannick relocated to Central Otago, New Zealand, where he established a new studio amid the vineyards of Domaine Rewa. This move allowed him to continue his craft while introducing his work to a new audience. His current offerings include both his own creations and a selection of classic Anduze vases and photofores, imported from his family’s workshop in France.
Today, Yannick Fourbet continues to produce pottery that is appreciated for its craftsmanship and design, serving clients worldwide, including homeowners, country estates, and businesses.
The above bio courtesy of The French Potter.
Image above courtesy of Domaine Rewa website.
The French Potter instagram.
If you'd like to read more.
There's an interesting article by New Zealand Wine Grower that's worth a read.
And This NZ Life has a fairly in-depth article, too, also worth a read. Fascinating!
We were fortunate to be able to visit Yannick's studio in Mount Pisa, on a beautiful yet overcast day in May 2023.
The French Potter's studio location is as majestic as the pots Yannick sells.
You arrive via via Highway 6, on Luggate-Cromwell Road, and turn into a gravel driveway. Following your nose, you head up the drive through the vineyards left and right, park, and meander down a long green stone-stepped path between rows of lush olive trees and lavender. At the end you find a fairly modern shed-style building housing The French Potter's studio and display area.
Being on the hunt for new pieces for one of our favourite clients, it's a delight to find such an array of gorgeous pots, bowls and vases etc. scattered throughout and outside, around the studio. The shapes, textures and colours are amazing.
Here are a few shots we grabbed for reference as we browsed. Yannick tells us there's plenty more products coming.
The photos don't quite tell the whole story. Be that as it may, be careful, otherwise you may find yourself wanting some of these objects of beauty. Enjoy.
Merci beaucoup Jannick.
