Arts organisation launches city’s first public ceramic studio

Artcore has successfully launched Derby’s first fully-equipped public ceramic studio, offering an immersive and hands-on experience in the art of pottery.

Known as Craftcore, the studio, situated next to Artcore Gallery, in Albert Street, is designed as an experiential creative space where people of all abilities can explore the world of ceramics through courses, workshops, drop-in sessions and bespoke experiences.

Launched last weekend, it is a vibrant, immersive environment where creativity, craftsmanship and learning come together.

From beginners curious about trying pottery for the first time to experienced makers wanting to develop their skills, the studio provides access to professional equipment, expert guidance and a welcoming community.

It has been designed as an interactive creative destination, encouraging visitors to engage directly with the making process and experience the satisfaction of creating something by hand.

One of the highlights of the initiative is the Pottery Throwing Experience, where participants can roll up their sleeves and learn how to throw clay on the wheel under the guidance of a studio potter.

Craftcore offers beginner and advanced ceramic courses, drop-in pottery sessions, corporate and team-building workshops, bespoke parties and private events and full ceramic training covering hand-building, throwing and glazing.

Zahir Shaikh, executive and artistic director at Artcore, said: “Opening Craftcore is a proud moment for us.

“It has been a long-held passion to create a dedicated ceramics space where people in Derby can experience the joy of making.

“Seeing that vision become a reality and welcoming the community into this immersive creative studio is incredibly rewarding.”

To find out more about Craftcore click here.