What a moment it was.
After sharing our excitement about being selected to represent Staffordshire at the House of Commons for the 10th anniversary of Staffordshire Day, we’re thrilled to reflect on what turned out to be an unforgettable experience not just for us, but for everyone who took part.
Because this wasn’t just a showcase.
It became something far more hands-on.
A Celebration of Staffordshire Craft
Walking into the House of Commons, we felt an enormous sense of pride. To stand alongside so many exceptional Staffordshire businesses each representing innovation, heritage, and craftsmanship was truly special.
Staffordshire has always been synonymous with ceramics. It’s where tradition meets progress, where skills are passed down and reimagined for new generations. Being part of that story, in such an iconic setting, was a privilege we won’t forget.
Clay in Action
We came prepared to share our latest developments our innovative clays, shaped by both experience and experimentation over the past year.
But we also brought something a little different. A pottery wheel. And that’s where things really came to life.
MPs Get Stuck In
It didn’t take long before curiosity turned into participation.
MPs rolled up their sleeves, sat at the wheel, and experienced clay in its purest form messy, mindful, and incredibly rewarding. For many, it was their very first time throwing a pot, and the reactions said it all.
There was laughter. There was concentration. There were a few wobbly forms (as expected!). But most importantly, there was genuine connection.
Because ceramics isn’t just about finished pieces. It’s about the process the feel of the clay, the rhythm of the wheel, and that moment when something begins to take shape beneath your hands.
And in that room, that connection was shared again and again.
More Than a Demonstration
What we witnessed went beyond a simple demonstration.
It sparked conversations.
About making.
About materials.
About the importance of creativity in everyday life.
It reminded us and hopefully everyone who joined us that ceramics has a unique way of bringing people together. It slows you down, draws you in, and leaves a lasting impression.
Conversations That Matter
Alongside the hands-on experience at the wheel, there was also an important opportunity to take part in meaningful industry discussions.
Our CEO, Hannah Ault, joined a ceramics roundtable with Ian Murray and other representatives from across the sector to talk about the challenges currently facing the industry.
One of the key topics on the table was the ongoing pressure of rising fuel costs.
As many in ceramics know, energy is at the heart of what we do. From firing kilns to producing materials, fluctuations in fuel prices have a direct and significant impact on manufacturers, studios, and independent makers alike. It’s an issue that continues to shape decisions across the entire supply chain.
The roundtable provided a valuable space to share real experiences, highlight the resilience of the industry, and ensure that the voices of ceramics businesses are heard at a national level.
While the day was filled with creativity and connection, moments like these were just as important helping to shine a light on the realities behind the craft and the support needed to sustain it for future generations.
It was a fitting end to a remarkable day bringing together creativity, conversation, and a shared commitment to ensuring the future of British ceramics continues to thrive.
