In January the Network, was successful in bidding for £10,000 from the National Lottery Heritage Fund, for a project “Bound by Clay”, to commission a film, web site and book documenting women’s contribution to the pottery industry. Led by network member Val Bourne, the project was launched at a sellout event, at Spode in Stoke on International Women’s Day, in March with special guest Kate Malone studio potter and judge on “The Great Pottery Throwdown”.
The project’s film Bound by Clay premiered on 12th June at the Film Theatre in Stoke, on Ray Johnson’s Screen Wednesday. It has been produced by local film company Inspired Film and Video. The film includes accounts by women who currently work or have worked in the industry, telling of their day-to-day experiences, the camaraderie and the skillful processes they developed. It uniquely documents aspects of Stoke-on-Trent's infamous industrial and cultural heritage from a female perspective. The premiere was attended by over 200 people. It was a fantastically emotional night, with much laughter and tears and it was wonderful to have the women that have appeared in the film in the audience.
We are now pleased to announce that the launch of the web site Bound by Clay, which include the film, full interviews with our amazing women and educational resources we hope you like it.
Our AGM will be taking place on Wednesday 6th November at 7pm. We are currently looking into venues. It will give people the opportunity to meet people that attended our previous events and to make new friends. We will also be electing committee members and there will be a chance to provide feedback on the Network's activities. The evening will conclude with a social.
If you would like more details please contact northstaffswomen@gmail
Vicki McGarvey
Current Chair