A craft everyone can master
DARRENWOOD – Prior to running Pottery Lane Custer worked in the corporate world but even there she found herself enjoying being a mentor and coach.
From the corporate world to teaching people the secrets of pottery.
Pottery Lane in Darrenwood has become an escape from the hustle and bustle of the City to many of its attendees. The craft of pottery has been described as a relaxing and mindful one by students of Pottery Lane.
Founder of Pottery Lane Michelle Custer turned her hobby into a business that had one class a month in the beginning to having six classes a week five years later.
Custer explained, “It grew thanks to people wanting to do something creative without technology. It was a way for them to relax, be inspired and creative whatever it is their hands allowed them too.” Additionally, the craft is something that anyone can do regardless of how artistic they are.
The possibilities of what one can make are endless as pottery students range their creations from dessert bowls to garden pots, sculptures to ornaments, the only thing that limits one is themselves. Custer added, “Anyone can make something beautiful and because you make it with your own hands and energy you will always look at your piece as something special.”
It has also become quite popular in recent times and those that give it a shot often find it very hard to give it up. Long-time Pottery Lane student Bennie Havenga added, “Pottery allows one to be as creative as they like, some stuff does require more practice than others but anyone can get into it. Most of the work I do is on the wheel and I love making big pots and vases that you can use at home and a lot of the time I gift them to friends and family.”
Prior to running Pottery Lane, Custer worked in the corporate world but even there she found herself enjoying being a mentor and coach. She said she has always had a passion for teaching and helping people discover their creative side. Fortunately, her students love learning the craft of pottery and contribute to making the space a very social, relaxed and enjoyable place.
Custer concluded, “Everybody needs a place where they can feel comfortable and relaxed while doing something they won’t be judged for. It’s like a family with my students and I always try to make the experience one people always remember.”
For more details, email michelle@potterylane.co.za or call on 082 803 9221.
