15 Days in Clay
Clay creates a wonderful meditative feeling… Janna Edwards - www.15daysinclay.co.uk Describe the progress of your journey with using clay in the community? Were there major influences in your choice of path to follow? I am a practising Ceramic Artist and teacher of over 25 years. I had always known I wanted to work with clay when I founded '15 Days In Clay' 17 years ago. The idea initially was to work with adults with learning or additional needs, teaching them ceramics to enable them to become artists in their own right. I wanted everyone to be able to experience clay and for individuals to be taught all aspects of ceramics to make work that can be exhibited and sold. I now also work with people with dementia, in recovery from strokes, mental health, spinal injuries as well as their carers and any that have an interest in ceramics. Working with clay changes lives and brings well being through creativity to many, with positive therapeutic as well as physical benefits. Working with groups has shown me how important it is to work as a team, to be part of a community and to belong. When I see the positive difference this incredible material makes to peoples lives, there is nothing better in the world.
Feathered Friends by Brian Cox What part do volunteers play with your projects? Volunteers find me through word of mouth, adverts on our website and other volunteer sites and from seeing our exhibitions. It could not exist without the help and support of these selfless amazing volunteers. They support, teach, do whatever is needed to help the artists and assist in the smooth running of the studio. One, John, has been with me for 16 years. Many are now practising ceramicists, with several setting up their own ceramic businesses. They also have their own evening class at the studio to continue their practice. How do you find participants for your projects? What sort of difficulties do they have? Many participants have heard of us through other people or they have been referred through social services or other organisations. Some have seen our exhibitions. I advertise what we do on websites. Initially, I just worked with adults
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Shards Summer 2021