Why Research Matters in a Working Ceramics Studio

Chris has begun a new phase of material research at Sunken Studio, working with recycled clay and industrial by-products. This post looks at how research sits within a working studio - and why it matters.

PROJECTSSunken StudioMarch 25, 2026chris-crawford, practice-over-time

Relocating to Leeds: our members’ experiences of joining the studio

Discover how newcomers to Leeds find community and creative fulfillment at Sunken Studio. Hear from members who've made connections and deepened their pottery skills after relocating. Whether you're new to the city or clay, our studio offers a welcoming space for all to explore their artistic side and build friendships. Join us to make Leeds feel more like home through the love of pottery.

STUDIO NOTESSunken StudioFebruary 8, 2026membership, practice-over-time

What I’ve learned from being told to stop

Rebecca Catterall, founder and director of Sunken Studio, reflects:

“Looking back, the moments when learning genuinely changed how I work all shared one thing: each involved being told to stop.

Stop doing what already worked. Stop relying on familiar habits. Stop long enough to work out why.”

Beginnings: how small steps led to bigger discoveries

Phil’s first contact with Sunken Studio was through a short Introduction on the Potter’s Wheel. It came at a time of uncertainty and loss - trying something new when life had shaken him. What began as a small step toward soothing became a turning point.

From those first pots to a commission for Leeds Discovery Centre, his story traces how working with clay can offer both focus and renewal - a steady practice that builds connection over time.

How a tiny kiln helped shape something bigger: glaze-making at Sunken Studio

What started with a compact gas kiln has grown into a full strand of glaze teaching at Sunken Studio - from our hands-on Make a Glaze course to Glaze Club, the Big Mix, and soon the return of live firings. This post shares the thinking, testing, and collaborative energy behind how we teach glaze-making - and why it’s shaped the studio in more ways than one.

Take on plates: making with purpose, together

Thoughtful pottery, shared purpose - this post reflects on Take on Plates, a ceramics exhibition created by Sunken Studio members in Leeds.

PROJECTSSunken StudioApril 1, 2025Sunken Studiomembership, practice-over-time

Making space: the vision behind Sunken Studio

Sunken Studio was founded on the need for a place in Leeds where people could make, connect, and belong. Rebecca Catterall wanted to create an environment where others could do the same, without the barriers that often make ceramics feel out of reach. Nearly a decade on, those founding ideas remain central. Sunken Studio continues to support independence, provide access to essential resources, and offer a space where making is valued as much for the process as for the outcome.

STUDIO NOTESSunken StudioFebruary 19, 2025rebecca-catterall, studio-development, practice-over-time

From Sudan to Leeds: shaping stories through clay

Enas, a Sudanese-Canadian artist, shares her deeply moving journey - from her architectural roots in Khartoum to exploring ceramics in Leeds. In this video, Enas reveals how her work gives voice to untold stories of Sudanese women, weaving history, culture, and resilience into each piece. Discover how clay becomes a medium for storytelling, reflection, and connection.

PROJECTSSunken StudioJanuary 27, 2025enas-satir, membership, practice-over-time

Cultural connections: shaping a city and studio through clay

Explore how clay has shaped Leeds, from its industrial roots to modern-making at Sunken Studio. In this blog, discover highlights from our Heritage Open Day, where urban geographer Rachael Unsworth and founder Rebecca Catterall discussed the enduring links between craft, community, and city life.

STUDIO NOTESSunken StudioDecember 10, 2024rebecca-catterall, practice-over-time

From open day to entrepreneur: Lee’s story

In just a few short months, Lee Simmonds went from trying ceramics for the first time to creating pieces he now shares with pride. With curiosity, determination, and the right environment at Sunken Studio, Lee discovered a space to explore new skills, refine techniques, and connect with a supportive community of makers.

STUDIO NOTESSunken StudioNovember 25, 2024Sunken Studiolee-simmonds, membership, practice-over-time

Enriching your life through creative escapes

Experience the power of creative escapism at Sunken Studio. Step away from the everyday hustle and find solace in ceramics, where personal growth and relaxation meet. Our members share how creative pursuits offer balance, connection, and fulfilment in a peaceful, supportive space.

STUDIO NOTESSunken StudioOctober 16, 2024Sunken Studiopractice-over-time

Diversity in a shared studio space

At Sunken Studio, pottery is about fostering connections. Our makers come from all walks of life, united by a shared passion for clay and community. Discover how a diverse group of individuals have found inspiration and a sense of belonging through making. Watch our latest video to experience life inside our studio.

STUDIO NOTESSunken StudioSeptember 27, 2024Sunken Studiopractice-over-time, membership

Potters with a twist

Explore how diverse experiences enhance pottery at Sunken Studio. Our makers bring different perspectives from painting, music, baking, and more, creating enriched clay works. Our inclusive space fosters creativity, providing equipment, community, and inspiration for all. Join us to connect and create!

STUDIO NOTESSunken StudioJune 26, 2024Sunken Studiopractice-over-time