A corner of Newbury is ceramics city

Visit City Arts Newbury and you’ll find it full of ceramics by a select group of local makers.

September Ceramics 2024 opens at the Hampton Road community arts venue tomorrow (Friday) with a good mix of domestic and sculptural pieces, all made by hand, by someone who’s completely engaged in the act of making.

Someone who’s become intrigued by the marvellous material that clay is and who loves exploring what can be done with it.

Go and see what they’ve been up to – it’s open 10am to 4pm until September 22.

This Saturday and Sunday is the showcase weekend, with a rolling programme of demonstrations.

You’ll see sculptures being built, clay being coloured and a variety of different surface decoration techniques. If you like getting your hands dirty, you can also have a go at throwing a pot on the potters wheel.

These sessions were popular last year and can be booked in advance on the City Arts website www.cityartsnewbury.org

There will also be a ceramics raffle, the ‘Up and Coming Makers’ competition and voting for your favourite work.

City Arts exhibitions are free and its Art Hub café is fast gaining a reputation for delicious homemade cakes and barista coffee.

It also has a great selection of locally made teapots (you might even meet the maker at September Ceramics) and chairs painted by local artists.

This year September Ceramics prizes are sponsored by Scarva Pottery Supplies, Bluematchbox Potters Supplies, Ugly Duckling Pottery Painting and City Arts Newbury.

City Arts, a registered charity, is a hidden gem, tucked away in one of the lovely old parts of Newbury (10, Hampton Road, RG14 6DB). It hosts a rolling programme of high-quality art exhibitions and workshops.

Their Art Hub Café is open Thursday to Sunday 10am to 4pm and also during exhibitions and events.

City Arts is always looking for volunteers. Contact them on volunteers@cityartsnewbury.org to find out more.