A younger generation is taking a keen interest in moulding clay at Craft Potters in Ranzau which hosts its annual Easter exhibition and sale this weekend.
Pottery was fashionable in the home when Craft Potters was created in the early 70s, and half a century later it is gaining popularity among younger people seeking the peacefulness of working with clay.
About 90 members use the facilities and secretary Marion Bansgrove says Covid-19 was the instigator for an increasing membership because people were at home more, thinking about their lives and what they wanted to do with their time.
“When someone gets their hands on clay, it helps their emotional dysregulation. It’s quite calming because you’re working with your hands and apparently three-quarters of your brain is used. It’s mindfulness.”
Marion says they have younger members who are keen on turning their pottery hobby into a business so they can escape the hassle of commuting to work and working for someone else.
“They want the lifestyle job, so we have a lot of new members.”
Members have access to the club facilities with its kiln and glazing options 24/7, which enables shift workers to work with their clay creations at night, or for any member to just find a quiet time for their hobby.
Potter Judi Salisbury says people finish work and their mind is buzzing, so working with clay is a chance to sit down and unwind.
She says the resurgence is also due to people getting sick of mass-produced art and the urge to create individual art pieces for their home.
Marion says potters are increasingly getting requests for specific work to be made, from bonsai pots to ceramic chimney pots.
The Craft Potters Exhibition is being held on April 8 and 9.
