Since recently joining the wonderful team at the CCSA, I have been wondering how best to get to know not only international members but also non-members.  Ideally, I would love to visit as many studios and suppliers as possible to introduce myself and also to learn about how different studios operate on the international PYOP scene.  I am sure that no two studios are the same and that each has its own working methods, problems, successes and regional variations. 

I am based in the city of Stoke-on-Trent in the UK, which is great, because historically, the city has been at the heart of pottery manufacturing for hundreds of years.  In fact, it used to be said that it was likely that there was at least one piece of pottery made in Stoke-on-Trent in every household in the civilised world!  Now before you go off to look in your kitchen cupboards, it is true to say that global competition has reduced the manufacturing in the area but despite this, the city is still known as the 'ceramics capital' of the world, with existing and new producers continuing to demonstrate the creativity that the area has long been famous for.

Anyway, having digressed somewhat, the point is that unless travel at the speed of light becomes commonplace very soon, and with new PYOP studios opening throughout the world, it is unlikely that I will ever get to meet everyone!  However, thanks to the latest technology we can all meet at the press of a button in an online ceramics world.  One of my aims is to develop this and to create an environment where members can feel confident that I am working to re-assess and develop the international benefits of the CCSA.  To do this, we need to get to know one another so first, perhaps I should tell you a little about me.  At the risk of sounding like a job application, here goes! 

I have been involved with pottery in one form or another throughout my working life.  I gained a degree in Ceramics and my career began as a pottery teacher in local schools (rather longer ago than I care to admit to!)  It was during this time, that a brush with cancer meant that I had to put my career briefly on hold but fortunately, making a full recovery, I returned to work as a Ceramics Instructor/Technician in the Occupational Therapy Department of a psychiatric hospital.

I later joined a local supplier of pottery materials to the craft and education market, where I organised seminars; some which I presented and others which were presented by well known potters.  I also assisted with the sales and marketing of hobby ceramics materials.  Following promotion to Hobby Ceramics Manager, I managed the entire division of the company with responsibility for home and export sales, seminars, technical advice, designing technique sheets, product innovation etc.  During my time in this role I visited customers and taught seminars throughout the UK and Europe.  I also visited business associates in Australia and in the USA, (where I learned the art of porcelain doll making and 'lace draping' too!)

Throughout the 1990s, I travelled widely throughout the UK as a Duncan Ambassador and I achieved the Erma Duncan Award.  I undertook all the necessary training in the USA to support my role.  In 2000, again preferring a part-time position, I took on a new challenge as curator of a ceramics museum in Stoke-on-Trent.  I am still involved with the museum, writing articles and presenting lectures on the subject.  I have also co-written a book on the history of ceramics.  Being part-time has enabled me to develop my own range of finished ware which I sell to a few select retail outlets.  (The picture was taken last summer in my home studio).

I enjoy being on the go and am never happier then when I am busy but I also like to relax, either walking my dog or going to see my son who is the lead guitarist in a well known tribute band.

There you have it, but enough about me and my past!  I am now looking forward enormously to the future and to working with the CCSA, so please get in touch so that we get to know each other; tell me what you would like from the CCSA and how you think I can help to build member value.   I am sure that is so much yet for me to gain an understanding of and your input is very important to me.  Your comments will help me as I move forward to develop the CCSA to the mutual benefit of all international members and supplier members.  You can contact me at alison@ccsaonline.com.  I look forward to hearing from you!