Ringing the Changes!
Hi,
I hope you’re well.
How are we nearly at the end of Summer Term?
Time has flown by in the studio and this weekend sees the fourth of the year’s masterclasses.
Justine Allison - master of super-fine porcelain work - will be teaching her techniques to a lucky few. It’s no secret that I think she’s incredibly talented. I’ll be listening & watching intently. Due to cancellations we now have spaces on this and the other (previously fully-booked) Chris Keenan and Sabine Nemet Masterclasses so if you have been unable to book before - now is your chance.
Amanda - glazing expertly.
The twelve week classes have enabled students to learn how to pull handles, experiment with surface decoration, slips and underglazes and glaze their own work. I can’t tell you how proud I am of everybody. At times it has been a bit ‘epic’ but it’s an enormous privilege to witness someone develop basic techniques and hone them into their own creative style. All 97 pots from the recent big glaze firing survived the kiln. There are some beauties and I can’t wait to show the students. Bravo Team!
Caroline Aisher
Caroline Aisher is a huge (not literally) asset to the studio, offering expert handbuilding tuition. She is allowing us to increase our offer of classes on Wednesday mornings in the autumn. It means that previously advertised classes are being rescheduled so that a morning throwing class can be introduced on Thursdays.
We have Summer Memberships available for those who are ‘hooked‘ and don’t want a break between classes and Memberships are also available for independent potters needing studio time and equipment.
The accounts for Vessel Studio’s first year made interesting reading. Turnover for this first year of trading is really good but expenses are eye-watering (including a £2.5K un-metered water bill). The continued economic uncertainty & decreased tourist numbers isn’t helpful for the gallery. I hope to be able to pay myself for the work I do so plan to be firmer about being a business person rather than a potter!
Existing prices will be held for bookings until 31st July, after which they will be increasing to better cover the commercial overheads so book now to avoid the hike!
Liz, Sarah, Ali, Sharon, Penny & Denise on their Birthday Bespoke Clay Session
Other Changes:
The rear part of the downstairs shop is now a studio space for our ‘Maker in Residence’ and is working well.
With more class availability, we have been able to offer catch-up sessions and fill-in sessions for when a student can’t make a class. These spots are offered to existing students first and then will be offered to past class members as one-off sessions for a reduced fee.
If there is space on the twelve week courses, it may be possible to do the first or second six weeks. Please email for availability.
The large, 50yr old kilns are inefficient and take up space. As they have been disconnected, I plan a furniture & shelving reshuffle over the summer and if there is space & funds, will consider getting another wheel.
Sophie - turning (trimming)
Throwing Tasters cost an incredible amount in post-class man-hours. There will be an additional cost for processing and firing finished work in the future.
Clay Experience Days will be purely for handbuilding - making & refining beautiful things rather than rushing to fit in throwing too.
The studio will be closed for classes over the summer - you never know, I might be able to do some potting myself!
As ever, thank you so much for your support and sharing in this pottery journey. If you happen to hear of a building that is not too cold to work in over the winter, do let me know!
Best wishes for a great summer.
Jilly x