Ten amateur potters from across Canada (spanning Vancouver Island to St. John’s) entered a custom-built barn-style studio in Canada. Over eight episodes, they faced three distinct types of challenges each week:
Best known for her scene-stealing role as Jocelyn Schitt on Schitt’s Creek , Robertson brought genuine warmth and slapstick humor. Unlike hosts who stand back and observe, Robertson was frequently found trying (and failing) to throw a pot, breaking a handle, or screaming with genuine horror as a kiln door opened. Her ability to cry during eliminations made her the emotional anchor of the series.
A creative or sculptural task that allows for more artistic expression, such as a sculpted animal, a wall mask, or an installation piece.
The first season consisted of eight episodes, airing weekly on Thursdays on CBC and CBC Gem from February to March 2024.
Renowned Vancouver artist evaluating conceptual creativity, structural integrity, and artistic depth. Seth Rogen
The competition took place in a beautiful, light-filled studio set on Granville Island in Vancouver, British Columbia, surrounded by the bustling creative atmosphere of the city. Meet the Judges and Host
The spot test involved intricate sgraffito tile carving. But the main challenge was a "self-portrait vessel." Potter Adam, a former hockey enforcer from Winnipeg, created a vase that looked like a cracked hockey helmet with roses growing out of the visor. He broke down crying, revealing he had been hiding a passion for floral art from his teammates for 20 years. It was the most viral clip of the season.
The series is a Canadian adaptation of the popular British format, bringing together 10 of the country's best amateur potters to compete in a studio located on Vancouver's Granville Island Jennifer Robertson (best known for Schitt's Creek Award-winning ceramicists Brendan Tang Natalie Waddell Special Guest & Producer: Seth Rogen
An impromptu challenge designed to measure precise, technical artisan skills.
reveals a competition series that emphasizes artistic expression over cutthroat drama. Premiering on February 8, 2024, the eight-episode season adapted the successful British format to showcase the diverse talents of Canadian amateur potters. Series Overview and Format
and technical pottery terms explained
Becca Wood (a 29-year-old librarian from Halifax) won Season 1. Her final piece—a towering tree of life with removable leaves as spoons—was both functional and sculptural. Interestingly, she had only been potting for 18 months. Her victory speech: “I learned that perfection is boring. I’m keeping the cracks.”
A significant factor in the show's success was the chemistry of the judging panel. Leading the charge was Brendan Tang , a renowned ceramic artist known for his intricate work blending historical styles with contemporary pop culture. Joining him was Natalie Waddell , a ceramicist and educator celebrated for her mastery of form and surface design.
Season 1 challenged the artists with themes that celebrated both traditional pottery and Canadian culture. Some of the most memorable challenges included crafting fully functional ceramic water fountains, creating elaborate table lamps that beautifully diffused light, and sculpting intricate self-portraits that expressed their personal identities. The potters also tackled regional tributes, molding pieces that reflected the diverse landscapes and Indigenous histories of Canada.
A multi-day signature project demanding extensive construction, glazing, and kiln firing.
The Great Canadian Pottery Throw Down (@canadianpotteryshow)