The Art
I am always intrigued by the beauty of pottery art and when I came across the Instagram account of Clay Creations 56, I just knew that this would be something that you guys would love as well. I had the honorable opportunity to site down with Debbi and to ask her a few questions about Clay Creations 56.
Introduction: Tell us a little bit about yourself and your back ground.
I always remember loving art classes as a child and especially enjoyed getting my hands messy with clay. As I grew up I lost touch with my creative side and focused on numbers which lead me into a financial career. It was only 7 years ago that I decided to listen to my instinct and follow my longing for working with clay, and it has been the best thing I have ever done! I’ve learned that numbers and clay are complete opposites because with ceramics everything is unpredictable and I love it! Sometimes the kiln gods take over and what you receive as the end result is a complete surprise! A good life lesson to let go and enjoy the process anyway. I hand make everything myself in Cape Town with the inspiring backdrop of Table Mountain and the ocean setting the tone for my various ranges.
When did you start Clay Creations 56 , and why?
I started doing ceramics in 2011 and shortly thereafter the brand was born. I had always wanted to reconnect with my creative side and it quickly became my passion.
Describe Clay Creations 56 in five words.
Beautiful Local Unique Handmade Ceramics
Does the name have any meaning?
Yes when I started working with clay my shelf number was 56 and so I incorporated it into my brand name to distinguish myself.
What challenges have you faced whilst running your company thus far?
Balancing a full time job with running my own small business.
How do you overcome these challenges?
I do my ceramics in the evenings and on weekends. It gives me a great opportunity to switch focus and use the right side of my brain, which I love.
What do you love about owning your own business?
The opportunity to do what I love and to create ceramics that my customers use with so much joy to beautify their homes. The best part is receiving photos and messages from happy customers, it is so rewarding.
Which job title best describes you?
Ceramic Artist / Entrepreneur
How many days per week do you work on average?
I only work on my ceramics after hours and on weekends.
Name three things that you can’t go a day without and that help you run your business.
Social Media,
Cape Town’s natural beauty which inspires me,
My various tools used in the creation process to make each statement piece one of a kind.
What advice do you have for someone who wants to start their own business or brand?
The cliches are true –
Believe in yourself,
Do what sets your soul on fire,
Never give up.
Do you feel like you are living your passion?
Yes I most definitely am and it makes my soul so happy!
Is there anything you know now, that you wish you knew when you started your business?
Yes, I discovered a talent I didn’t know I had. I know now that it’s important to be accepting as things don’t always go according to plan, in life and in the kiln!
Which people have been enormously helpful to you?
My family and friends for believing in me and encouraging me, and the experienced local entrepreneurs whose advice I follow closely on social media.
Who is your target market? If I were to give you a referral, who would I be looking for?
I have a wide target market given the nature of the product, but it is mainly females who purchase from Clay Creations 56 and the customers range from 25 yrs to 90 yrs old!
Any future plans with the brand?
Yes for sure, I can’t spill the beans just yet… But watch this space…
All her work is available to purchase, and viewings of the range can be privately arranged, or items can be purchased online.
Instagram: claycreations56
Facebook: Clay Creations 56 – Handmade Pottery https://m.facebook.com/claycreations56/
A look at Debbi’s masterpieces and one of kind creations.
Debbi and I are planning something exciting! So be sure to follow both of our platforms.
