LIVING WITH CLAY
Meet Esther Kotewa, the potter behind the Craft centre in Maun
In the bustling heart of Maun’s Power Station, lies a hidden gem, the Craft Centre, home to the intricate world of pottery and ceramics, curated by Esther Kotewa, the passionate manager behind the scenes, whose journey from apprentice to artisan exemplifies dedication and creativity.
Esther’s love affair with pottery began at the tender age of 19 when she embarked on her training at the renowned Lekgabo Training Centre in Francistown. Fast forward to 1987, and Esther found herself immersed in the world of pottery and ceramics, honing her craft as a potter and ceramist. Over the years, she embraced every challenge and opportunity, steadily ascending the ranks until she was appointed Manager in 2001.
At the Craft Centre, Esther’s designs are more than just pieces of clay; they are reflections of her life’s inspirations and musings. From elegantly crafted plates to intricately painted ashtrays, each creation embodies Esther’s unwavering commitment to practicality and functionality.
Yet, the journey of a potter is not without its obstacles. Esther recounts the challenges of dealing with customers who fail to collect their orders, a common frustration in the pottery business. To mitigate this issue, the Craft Centre now requires a deposit from customers, ensuring accountability and commitment to their orders. Additionally, working with clay presents its own set of challenges, from the delicate process of heating to the occasional imperfections that may arise.
“Despite these hurdles, my enthusiasm in crafts remains undiminished. What excites me the most about pottery is its timeless nature, practical skill that transcends the confines of our workplace.”
Esther plans to continue her pottery pursuits, offering lessons to the younger generation and nurturing a legacy of creativity and craftsmanship.
Looking to the future, the Craft Centre aims to expand its offerings by providing pottery lessons to enthusiasts. For a modest fee of P120 per hour, participants not only learn the art of pottery but also have the opportunity to take home their own handcrafted masterpieces - a testament to Esther’s commitment to sharing her passion with others.
As Esther Kotewa continues to shape clay into works of art, her journey serves as an inspiring reminder of the transformative power of creativity and dedication. At the Craft Centre, the art of pottery isn’t just a business but a lifelong journey of self- expression and discovery.