A childhood of drawing, painting and making “stuff” led julie to leaving Ireland at 18 for Nottingham where she completed a BA Hons Theatre Design degree. She worked in Theatre, Television and Film in a variety of departments wearing a range of hats leaving her with a wide skill set. After gaining a PGCE in Secondary Art & design Julie used her skills as an art and textile teacher in a Upper School motivated by the tactility, patterns and colour of nature and the simplest of form and techniques Julie creates responses to the world around her.

Kirsty has been practicing ceramics since 2001, has a BA Hons in Fine Art and a PGCE in Secondary Art and Design. Her work is an eclectic mix of functional thrown and hand build pieces and sculptural conceptual work. She sells her work locally, nationally and internationally via retail outlets, makers fairs and online. She accepts commissions and is currently expanding her knowledge of glaze science, hoping to develop a range of glazes to enhance the sculptural side of her practice.

Kate fell in love with ceramics after taking a school art technicians job, which required her to help students with their clay projects. Following a steep learning curve, she bought herself a kiln from eBay and set up a small studio at home.

She works with stoneware and much prefers hand-building to throwing. She likes to make whimsical objects and sculptures based on natural forms. The inspiration comes from nature as well as myths, legends and fairytales.

Since 2015, Alistair has been developing their practice, moving from a background in conceptual artwork towards design. They create art objects which are founded in functionality and relevant to everyday life, with ample opportunity for interaction. Primarily working with metals, they utilise a variety of processes which often merge traditional and modern techniques. They are now experimenting with CNC machining, exploring the interplay between machine and man made. In addition to their personal practice, they take commissions, handle repair and restoration work, and serve as an art fabricator, collaborating closely with artists on tailored technical development.

Sarah started her ceramics journey around 2019 by first attending evening classes at Milton Keynes Art Centre, she then started evening classes at Beds Arts and Crafts Centre in 2022 to broaden her knowledge and learning with clay.

She has a keen interest in learning new techniques in building, glazing, decorating and firing and particularly enjoys the exciting results that smoke-firing and Raku can give.

She is a true believer that ‘anyone can do it’ and loves to see how people’s different personalities are revealed in their work.

Sarah feels that ceramics is a unique type of therapy and can significantly help towards good mental health and well-being.