Mum of Leeds’ first baby this decade reopens pottery studios in Wakefield
A new mum who gave birth to Leeds’ first baby of the decade is reopening the doors to her pottery studio with new activities and a new business partner.
Naomi Jasmine, owner of Jasmine Pottery Studios, has had a whirlwind of a year after welcoming her baby boy, Rocco Candelas, into the world on January 1. After settling into motherhood, Naomi then got busy working on her own studios, providing pottery workshops for all ages and abilities.
Situated in Wakefield city centre, Naomi has breathed life into the previously empty shop space with support from East Street Arts in Leeds, The Ridings in Wakefield and The Prince’s Trust Charity through its Enterprise programme.
After local firms donated furniture for upcycling, Naomi planned to reopen after her maternity leave in early March but due to the COVID-19 outbreak she was unable to do so. She quickly adapted to provide an online service offering activity packs.
The COVID-19 outbreak also left Naomi’s partner Pepe, who worked with disadvantaged children, without a job so the pair are now teaming up to run the firm together.
The new-look venture will include a not-for-profit social enterprise providing clay therapy and pottery classes to vulnerable and disadvantaged groups as well as an artist gift shop that supports local artists and makers.
Naomi said: “We are looking to collaborate with local charities, community interest companies, care homes and mental health groups. We believe in the therapeutic nature that clay and painting brings to people and can see how it improves well-being in both adults and children.”
If you are involved with any such organisations, or to book a pottery course, painting session or the summer club, visit www.jasminepotterystudios.com.