Making changes post-covid
By summer of 2020 I was convinced that people would want something different once the pandemic finished. Not everyone of course. Some people would hanker after their action-packed, workaday lives. They would have missed the routine of the commute, or the coffee machine banalities… but for many people, there would be a watershed. They would want a more fulfilling, creative and meaningful existence. I felt, and still do, that I had something of a formula for change… just for the few people who want to work in creative ways to influence others for good. I devised The Winter School, a six-month programme of creative and business development through ceramics, based on a weekend a month of training in making techniques, teaching techniques and business.
I thought I might get a handful of applicants, and took a small Facebook ad out. We’re completed the fifth course, and it’s been full each time. The format has evolved, but the principles are the same - work through your changes in a safe environment with a group of like-minded people. Learn how to make ceramics, how to start a studio, how to teach others, and how to run a business. But don’t feel you have to adopt all of those elements. Registration is now open for the last Making Changes and Winter School course starting in September 2024 - details here
Here are some things which attendees have said in response to questions I asked after the course:
“The Winter School at Kinsale Pottery is a wonderful, holistic and immersive pottery course. More than just making, there's so much knowledge to be gained from Adrian and the other professionals - marketing, budgeting, pricing, selling.....I loved the free sharing of information and the nuggets and tips I picked up along the way from all involved. Honestly, I miss my weekend visits to Kinsale Pottery.”
“I highly recommend Kinsale pottery for anyone who is thinking about pottery as a career or even a hobby.”
“Kinsale Ceramics is an oasis of creativity! Adrian has an amazing ability to teach all levels, to encourage talent and to give personal attention to each student. The atmosphere is positive and friendly. I highly recommend this studio to anyone seeking to learn more about the arts of ceramics. You have to experience at least one class or just drop by their studio to see the beautiful creations. “
“This course has opened many doors that needed to open! I have needed to expand my current business and I think having time to rethink and take stock during Covid it's been the best move. Adrian will teach you well and support you with your ideas, a great ' go to' person. Even if you are not too confident of your pottery skills, have a go! You won't regret it!!!”
Did the course meet your expectations?
“It met my expectations and more. I loved how you shared your knowledge and experience freely with lots of little tips. The visiting professionals were also very informative on an easy to understand and practical level and very inspiring. I loved it!”
“My expectations were really to come along and go with the flow, learn more skills but I didn't really realise how many ideas are popping along from discussions with Adrian and listening to other people with regards as to what I want to do next. It's really giving me a door to explore new things.”
What did you like most about it?
“The making and the sharing of knowledge from everyone involved. Being immersed in pottery was wonderful.”
:I enjoyed the interaction with likeminded people who were trying to achieve something similar to myself”
Since you completed the course, what have you used from it in developing your work?
I use many of the making tips from both yourself and my peers, I plan my work, I'm making plans to give workshops and classes in the future.