Phoenix Pottery

This new pottery, based in workshops in Dyson Yard, Dyson Street, Heaton, Bradford, is the brainchild of Helen Kemp, who hopes people will come along to the venture to learn about pottery - and themselves.
“There’s so much pressure on people these days to be part of this capitalist society that people don’t have much time for leisure,” she says.
“By taking time out for a creative hobby or pastime, you can find out more about yourself, have fun with others and create something.
“Pottery is a wonderful thing as you are working with natural substances and you are opening the doors of creativity and your self-worth begins to grow.”
Helen, who taught pottery at Shipley College for 15 years, says she has seen many people benefit from taking part in the craft.
“I’ve seen people who are going through the mill. They’re on the treadmill with a full time job and no time for themselves,” she says.
“Then they take up something like pottery and realise there’s a different way of life and you can be in touch with yourself and your natural rhythms.”
The pottery, which has a core group of four members, will be offering classes, Saturday schools, open and assisted workshops. “Even if people haven’t done it for years, or have never had a go, they’re more than welcome to come along and have a go,” adds Helen.
The name Phoenix Pottery comes from the new life that people can find after they’ve been through a crisis and managed to get through the “wall of fire”.
“A lot of people do have crises in their lives, say when they are made redundant later in life and realise they may never work again,” she explains.
“When that happens, you go through a real emotional and psychological crisis, and if you manage to come through it you realise you can live a more worthwhile way of life - and that’s going through the wall of fire, hence the name Phoenix.”
The pottery is split into two sections - one room for throwing the clay, with four spinning wheels, tools and work-benches, and another room for glazing, where there are two kilns.
For more information ring Helen Kemp on (01274) 401029.