You may have run into or had a class with our Teacher and Studio Manager, Blanche. But unless you’ve spent some time in the studio you may not have gotten to know her as well as you like, yet. Our new ‘Meet The Teacher’ series is designed to do just that. A deeper introduction to who you’ll meet in our studios, what drives them to the craft of clay and what they love teaching most. We hope this series makes you feel even more a part of the Stone Community and empowered to strike up a chat when you see our teachers in the studio next. You know we love those community vibes and a friendly atmosphere - preferably with dirty clay hands!
Blanche quickly realised her passion for pottery and has been teaching the art for almost 2 years. Over four years ago, as she saw a lady working away in her little pottery studio during an afternoon stroll with her dog, Blanche felt drawn to the craft. It took months of walking by to get up the courage to walk in and ask to give it a go - and we are so glad she did! After just a few months (that weren’t without the frustrations of learning a new skill), Blanche landed an internship with a talented ceramicist that she admired. That’s where her love for clay truly blossomed and soon after, what was a hobby became a career.
Let’s dive right into what Blanche loves about ceramics, teaching and her favourite things to make. Don't forget, term 4 courses are out now, so you can book in to learn with Blanche.
1. What do you love about teaching?
“When I’m teaching students who ‘don't think they are creative or arty’ or those that seem a little nervous about the whole thing… I like the little moments I get to see when they relax into it and a little spark of joy, excitement or maybe even pride begins to shine through.”
2. What is your favourite course to teach?
“Beginners Part 2 up to Intermediate. I like seeing people gain their confidence beyond the very basic fundamentals and start exploring new shapes.”
3. What is your favourite thing to make?
“Bowls at the moment, but I love throwing a good vase.”
4. What advice would you give an aspiring potter?
“Honestly, I found the early stages of my pottery journey really frustrating. Learning to be more patient and not so hard on myself when I'm not improving, or getting the results I want has been helpful. It's easier to say it now, but not being attached to each piece and practising perseverance will go a long way.”
5. What do you love about working with clay?
“I have always enjoyed making things with my hands, from mud pies as a kid to architectural models at Uni. I think for me pottery hits a bit of a sweet spot. Structure and discipline balance perfectly with creativity, flow and spontaneity.”
We are so thrilled to have the talented Blanche with us at Stone Studio. Next time you see Blanche around, don’t forget to say hi! And, if you’re keen to learn with her you can check out a few workshops and Term 4 courses she’s teaching below.
We know that learning a new skill like ceramics can come with its frustrations, challenges or some people can just feel a little unsure about their creativity. Our teachers are here to help you on your journey whether it’s refining your skills to make new functional ceramics, finding inspiration to feel creative again, or learning to relax, unwind and enjoy the experience. Get in quick for Term 4 courses, they’re the last courses for the year!
