8 Nov 16'
"Fantastic pottery coaching, that is welcoming, inspiring, friendly and cosy, set in an idyllic cottage garden.
One and a half years after I started attending the Pottery Slow Down week-night course, I still love this studio as much as the first day I attended. The classes are kept small so that you're able to get a good amount of 1:1 coaching. After a hectic week in the office, the pottery is a calm and relaxed environment where you can focus on being creative and I always leave with a sense of achievement and a warm glow.
Jo is a very experienced potter and it shows in the breadth of knowledge that she has for techniques and in the passion with which she discusses pottery. She is very patient, taking time to show you each technique you require to achieve your desired project. What I love most about her coaching is that when you come up with a new idea she gets really excited and is always really keen to help you work out how to realise your idea.
Perhaps the best recommendation is that I never feel like my Thursday evening classes are enough, so when ever I have a free Saturday I go along to the Saturday full-day sessions as well. I've also taken several friends and family members along and without exception, they've really enjoyed their day.
Summary:
> Good, personalised, teaching
> Variety of materials and techniques available to use (different clay types, slips, glazes, wheels, coil pots, slab pots, tiles, sculpting, to name but a few)
> Lots of wheels (4 between 7 students - I only can last 3 hours on the wheel max, so you don't need one for every student).
> Space for you to create your own projects, there is no program to follow, so you create something unique and Jo will personal her tuition.
> Jo's home-made biscuits!
Who I think this weekend course would be good for:
> Beginner potters looking for a first try at pottery, or intermediate potters wanting space and to create their own ceramics and receive coaching.
> Groups of friends or family looking for a creative cottage retreat in the countryside
I would suggest coming to the pottery with a few ideas so that you can get stuck in straight away. But don't worry if you're unsure of what to make, there are always loads of beautiful pots in various stages of creation dotted around the studio to inspire."