Born in Cardiff in 1943, Clive Bowen first studied painting and etching at Cardiff College of Art before going on to train with Michael Leach at the Yelland Pottery, and later working with Michael Cardew at Wenford Bridge. Since 1971 he has been based in Devon, where he produces slip-decorated earthenware in predominantly domestic forms with abstract and stylised slipware patterns. His work is held in a number of UK public collections including the V&A and National Museum of Wales.