Sonja Kuratle
My first encounter with clay was as an 8 year old whilst playing, forming found clay into round cakes and small animals. I felt great enjoyment handling and shaping this natural material.
Going on to study pottery, I obtained a BA (Hons) in Ceramics at Cardiff Art College, followed by a postgraduate art teacher’s certificate. I went on to teach pottery at Llanover Hall Arts Centre in Cardiff and also made my own ceramics there. Later, with my friend Ursula Wimhurst we were able to set up and run our own pottery classes at Cardiff City Farm. These were for people of all ages and abilities. We also continued making our own ceramic work there. This was an inspiring time and I enjoyed working with a variety of people from the local community and beyond.
After moving to Wiltshire, I set up my own ceramic workshop. I run pottery workshops for family groups, friendship groups or individuals there. Here they learn how to throw on a potters wheel, hand building, decorating, glazing and firing as well as having a fun and relaxing time. I now have wide experience of working in community arts. I also worked in our local secondary school teaching Art Expression to young people with additional educational needs. I continue to make ceramics, vases, bowls, clay birds, mugs and large garden pots which I exhibit and sell in shops and arts trails.
I have been very fortunate to have set up and run courses at Garden Stream Pottery in Wales with my good friend Ursula Wimhurst. We have a good working relationship, and we both really enjoy working with other people. These clay courses are creative as well as relaxing. They are set in the beautiful Welsh landscape.
website: sonjakuratle.com
