Potter’s Paradise
Get creative with clay at Balnacra Arts and Pottery, Strathcarron
NEAR the small town of Strathcarron, on Scotland’s north west coast, 32km (20 miles) north of Kyle of Lochalsh and Skye, lies something straight out of a fairy tale.
Set just back from the main road, is a curious, low building with jolly hand painted signs, various knickknacks that line the path and the glorious backdrop of mountain Fuar Tholl. The Smithy that houses Balnacra Arts and Pottery is a creative oasis in the North West Highlands.
The little workshop at Balnacra offers the perfect activity for any families exploring the area. Artist Vicky Stonebridge’s informal pottery-making sessions are on offer throughout the year, with regular classes running for adults and children or group sessions available to book.
The Smithy is a hive of creativity, with an emphasis on having fun and giving it a go.
“The sessions are fun and informal,” Vicky says. “You can make things by hand and have a go on the potter’s wheel, with someone there to help you get the best out of the experience and hopefully a keepsake pot!”
Vicky is a wonderful teacher and keen to get everyone involved – from all ages and abilities. Visitors pay per group for the studio time and tuition, but you can “throw a pot” as many times as you like for £1 a go to perfect your skills before your final piece.
“It’s not often in our fast-paced world that families get to sit down together to relax and do something creative – I’ve even had groups with four generations all working together and supporting each other. Working with clay is therapeutic, just enjoying the process and using your hands.” At Balnacra, your only limit is your imagination. Vicky encourages all visitors, whatever their abilities, to create their own designs and take inspiration from the examples that line the walls of the studio,
“It is always amazing how people start with the same sized lump of clay and come out with so many different and wonderful items.”
The entire pottery process from clay to the finished, glazed article can take a few weeks, but Vicky ensures each prized creation is returned to its potter via post.