The idea
Columbia Road Clay believes that giving and contributing collectively can bring a community together, ease social isolation, and improve personal wellbeing. Our aim is to provide a welcoming environment that can be a respite from the stresses of the day-to-day, an opportunity to be engaged with the local community and to learn a new skill among friendly faces. Especially welcome are those in the community who may not otherwise have access to these kinds of activities.
Free workshops follow co-operative principles, where members of the community come together to make pottery not only for themselves but to contribute to the sustainability of the studio as a whole. In exchange for their creative work, participants learn valuable skills and knowledge of ceramics working with experienced educators and artists. Pottery made by the community will be fired then made available for sale to the public. All proceeds are used to continue the studio’s free and low-cost classes.
What we'll deliver
- Free or low-cost classes to learn about pottery, clay and ceramics
- A welcoming and supportive environment to collaborate and learn
- Local access to a weekly activity that supports health and wellbeing
- Collaborative projects that help support further education
- Fundraising opportunities and activities for the local schools and community groups
- Craft makers charity events such as Empty Bowls
- Cultural arts-based activities that celebrate the community and history of Columbia Road
Why it's a great idea
Columbia Road Clay is an organisation working to provide access to free clay and pottery workshops to the local community surrounding Columbia Road. We support educational and fundraising activities for the local schools, resident and community groups. CRC strives to create a space where locals and visitors alike can learn a new skill, indulge in a hobby or simply relax and enjoy creating pottery that helps provide for the community.
Ceramic studios can be expensive and inaccessible to many. Through its free workshops, Columbia Road Clay will work to close that gap and allow more people from a variety of backgrounds and age groups to benefit from the many therapeutic and healing aspects of this craft. We aim to be that inclusive space where all are welcome to help their community by learning and making together.
Steps to get it done
- Set up website and calendar of events
- Purchase tools and materials
- Community outreach via mini-events, social media and community leaders
- Kick off first Free workshop
- Community-made pottery for sale that helps support the continuation of the programme
