Works that Works

On Friday 26 May 2017 creative small businesses were invited to share a snapshot of themselves in their workspaces to celebrate new research from NOT ON THE HIGH STREET. The research highlights how small creative businesses are helping to redefine the world of work. You can review the report here.

In September 2016 I left a salaried position at Leeds College of Art to setup Sunken Studio. The last 9 months have been thrilling, daunting and knackering – but focusing on making was 100% the right thing to do. Every month has delivered something different and I’ve met loads of new people. I’ve got lots of ideas about different parts of the business to develop. There are also a few really exciting and varied projects on the horizon. So lots more planning, development & partnerships. I wanted to continue learning and I’ve learnt so much.

I am a maker. I like to construct things. Assembling pieces & parts & making tools to help do it. However, making isn’t just about the physical stuff I also really enjoy the business side too. It’s just another type of construction – but it requires a different type of design thinking and a lot of drive and resilience. Working with clay and in three-dimensions helps prepare you for that resilience.

NOT ON THE HIGH STREET‘s findings celebrate how small creative business are shaking up work in innovative ways to pursue creative and fulfilling lives.

Sunken Studio set out to deliver satisfying, maker-led experiences that afford people the flexibility to choose what they make and how often. It’s possible to do a ceramics course in six weeks, a one-off taster or assemble a course of tasters across several months or even years. It’s hoped that our flexibility results in more people taking time to address their work/life balance.