In a world that often encourages stoicism and emotional restraint, seeing someone publicly embrace their vulnerability is a refreshing and inspiring reminder of the power of authenticity. Keith Brymer Jones, a celebrated potter and ceramicist from the UK, exemplifies this beautifully. With over four decades of experience in pottery, he’s not just known for his exquisite designs but also for his heart-on-sleeve approach as one of the expert judges on The Great Pottery Throwdown. I saw a photo of Keith on social media holding a sign that reads “Real Men Cry”, it is a testament to a truth we don’t hear often enough.
Watching Keith on the show, it’s impossible not to be moved by his genuine reactions to the contestants’ work. He often gets teary eyed as he witnesses the culmination of their creativity, dedication, and effort. These moments of vulnerability are not a sign of weakness—far from it. They’re evidence of someone so deeply connected to their craft that they can’t help but feel every success, every breakthrough, and every perfect and beautifully imperfect pot made in that studio.
What makes Keith even more admirable is his obvious desire to inspire and uplift others. He doesn’t just critique the work presented to him—he celebrates it, nurtures the talent he sees, and offers heartfelt encouragement that helps contestants push past their insecurities. His emotional investment shows a profound commitment to fostering creativity and confidence in others. Keith’s passion for pottery is matched only by his dedication to helping others realise their potential.
Imagine being so passionate about your craft that witnessing others succeed brings you to tears. It’s not just about the work itself—it’s about the journey, the stories behind each creation, and the courage it takes to bring an idea to life with your hands. Keith’s tears are a reflection of his empathy and his unwavering desire to uplift and encourage others in their creative pursuits.
There’s something enviable about loving your craft to that degree. For many creators and artisans, the journey is filled with highs and lows—frustration, inspiration, and moments of pure joy when something finally clicks. Keith reminds us that those moments are worth celebrating, and that vulnerability isn’t just okay; it’s beautiful. It’s what connects us as human beings.
His sign, “Real Men Cry,” is a quiet but powerful rejection of outdated notions of masculinity. The idea that strength lies in emotional suppression has long been ingrained in our culture, but people like Keith defy that narrative by simply being themselves—open, compassionate, and unafraid to feel.
As creatives, we can take a page from Keith’s book. Whether we’re potters, painters, writers, or any other type of maker, embracing our passion fully and without apology is where true fulfilment lies. Allowing ourselves to feel—to be moved by our own work and by the work of others—is essential for growth and connection.
So here’s to Keith Brymer Jones and to everyone who creates from the heart. May we all be so passionate about what we do that it brings us to tears.
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