The Potter of Leith, a social enterprise which offers free workshops to aid mental health issues.

Introduce us to you and your brand!

The Potter of Leith is the trading name of Leith Community Pottery CIC, a social enterprise which offers free and subsidised access to tuition and workshops to those living with poor mental health. .

"Leith Community Pottery, a social enterprise which offers free and subsidised access to tuition and workshops to those living with poor mental health."

How has your brand developed since you began?

Products have evolved to respond to sales, orders and commissions. The colour ranges and products on offer reflect, to some extent, what the market indicates is popular. However, I continue to develop and ‘road test’ new designs, products and glazes according to my own inspiration and instinct.

How did you find out about SDX? And what made you apply to sell with us?

I was aware of the shop when it was in Ocean Terminal. I was attracted by the environment and the ethos of SDX.

What would you consider to be the most challenging aspect about being a working artist? The admin/business/social media side of things. I’d rather just stick to what I’m good at!

What do you consider to be your most popular product?

My ramen bowls seem to be my best selling product

What piece are you the proudest of?

My butter bells and soap dishes, as they are inspired by the thought of encouraging a reduction in the use of disposable plastic containers.

Do you have any past accomplishments you wish to share?

Setting up and sustaining the business in the first place!

What have you found to be the most challenging aspect to your business since the beginning of the pandemic in 2020?

Constantly having to chase funding and financial support.

"I was attracted by the environment & the ethos of SDX."

How have you spent your time during lockdowns?

Making pottery and mastering my kiln.

Have you discovered any new hobbies or passions in the last year?

Yes.

How do you think shopping and retail may change after the pandemic ends?

I hope folks will focus more on local products and traders and think more about quality and sustainability. Global capitalism needs to be reined in as part of greater change in social and political attitudes.

How did SDX being closed affect your business?

I’ve definitely lost an income stream and I was keen to see the benefits of the move to George St. I feel very positive about the move and look forward to things getting up and running again.

"I hope folk will focus more on local products and traders and think more about quality and sustainability."

What do you hope to gain from working with SDX going forward?

I hope, as 2 social enterprises, we can offer mutual support. I certainly think the new location has the potential to offer access to new and healthier markets/customers.

If you could share just one piece of advice to aspiring artists/designers who want to make a living from their creative talents, what would you tell them?

Don’t undersell/under-price yourself. Don’t try to capture the market with ’cheap’ prices. Remember you’re self-employed, so no sick pay, holiday pay or pension. Think about what costs what; £20 will get you…… a burger and 2 pints of lager? A takeaway pizza with sides? Or a hand-made coffee mug that will potentially last forever.

Tell us your favourite inspirational quote!

"Endeavour to persevere"

Thank you to Andy Lang at The Potter of Leith for participating in our blog.

You can find The Potter of Leith in our Edinburgh George Street shop.