ClayKilnCraft

ClayKilnCraft is an independent educational and training pottery set in the heart of Crystal Palace, South East London. Started in 2014 by ceramic artist Aliya Rashid giving wheel lessons in her studio for beginners, the company has evolved into a thriving creative space teaching people of all abilities to throw, handbuild and explore their inner artist while improving and building on their skills. After graduating in Ceramics at Camberwell College of Art with a first class honours degree, Aliya fell into teaching by accident after she was recommended by a friend to teach pottery at a centre 
for special needs adults in London. ‘It was a very challenging, but rewarding experience. I came away from that summer project completely humbled. I knew I wanted to do more. ‘It started small, with monthly lessons. When my students wanted more I found space in a basement converted toilet! And yes, it was as grim as it sounds. When it rained the smell was… very pungent! ‘I was thrilled to find the shop I’m in now. It’s taken a lot of hard work to get it to this stage. It’s all been done with sheer hard work, doing two jobs to finance everything. This is an independent studio and I’m determined it should stay that way. The atmosphere is relaxed, fun and supportive whatever my students aims are. The studio is looking fantastic and the facilities improve on a weekly basis. ‘As well as core courses and classes for beginners and intermediates, we now offer open access to people of all abilities. The studio helps people to develop at their own pace to make what interests them whether they are hobby potters and just want to relax after a hard days work or they are serious potters looking to sell or exhibit their work. We work with the individual’