People encouraged to potter
The Waikato Society of Potters are again holding their annual open day to encourage more people to learn the craft.
Held this weekend at the society’s base on Seddon Rd, guests will have a chance at throwing, decorating and glazing a pot.
There will also be clay-related family-friendly activities on offer, as well as a cake stall, an ‘‘arty’’ car boot sale and information on pottery classes.
Manager Trish Seddon said pottery was a great way to destress and be creative. ‘‘It’s special me-time,’’ she said. ‘‘Our Play with Clay on Thursday evenings is really vibrant.’’
After The Great Pottery Showdown aired on New Zealand TV screens, Seddon said the society saw an influx of potters.
She expects when the next season premiers, their numbers will go through the roof.
The Open Day is one of many activities the club takes part in.
Waikato’s leading pottery centre also visit potter’s studios, launch exhibitions, and create raku and wood firings.
The society aims to promote study in the various techniques of clay-work to the wider community, advance education by sharing resources, tutors and or facilities with other organisations and schools, and encourage the uptake of pottery by people of all ages and abilities in order to promote a healthy community, including mental and physical rehabilitation.
Seddon said the open day raises the profile of the society, which has been in Hamilton for close to 45 years.
WSP Open Day and Pottery Fair, Saturday, September 23, 10am to 3pm at the Waikato Society of Potters, Ward Park Art Centre, 2 Seddon Road, Hamilton.