Alice Gostick was a Castleford art teacher whose influence reached far beyond the classroom. She taught a generation of young artists, including Henry Moore and his contemporary and school friend Albert Wainwright, and played an important part in ensuring that Moore was able to continue his art education.
The Peasant Pottery Movement
But Alice’s own achievements deserve recognition. She didn’t just educate. She also started a movement of peasant pottery classes that spread to more than 100 institutions across England.
Peasant pottery refers to the simple, rustic earthenware historically crafted by rural artisans for everyday domestic use. Made from coarse local clays, it values utility over ornamen. Simple, earthy glazes provide the finish.
The items are created by hand to store water, cook food, or serve meals. So peasant pottery pieces often feature unique imperfections like visible finger marks, heavy walls, and uneven firing tones. Today, the style is celebrated for blending timeless folk tradition with functional, handmade charm.
Honouring Castleford Artist Alice Gostick
In 2023/2024, Empath Action CIC* created a project to celebrate Alice Gostick’s life and work. Their members have direct connections with DTC and the Forgotten Women of Wakefield. Funded through Wakefield Council Culture Grants, the project honoured Alice through a play, a zine and a blue plaque.
Today, Alice takes her place in Castleford as another remarkable local woman commemorated with a blue plaque, helping to make women’s contributions to the history of Wakefield District more visible.
Project lead Steven said:
Empath Action CIC is thrilled to add Alice Gostick to the tally of women recognised by the Forgotten Women of Wakefield project and to help support the Project’s work as it demands blue plaque parity for women in our District.
The reception area of Castleford Academy houses Alice Gostick’s Blue Plaque. Headmaster Bush and the CEO of the Trust Mr Panayiotou unveiled it at a private ceremony on April 25th 2024 by Headmaster Bush and the CEO of the Trust Mr Panayiotou.
*You can learn more about Empath Action, now known as Empath Theatre, on their Facebook Page..Â