A new pottery studio has opened in Darlington after its founder turned a long-held dream into reality within weeks.
The Potty Hare, launched by local potter and graphic designer Tracy Hare, offers classes, workshops and creative activities for adults and children.
Tracy had originally planned to return to graphic design once her four-year-old son started school but she decided to explore a different path.
(Image: SARAH CALDECOTT)
She said: "I've been in graphic design for probably 25 to 30 years.
"My life was just sitting in front of a computer screen, pushing pixels around.
"In my evenings and my spare time I did every creative course I could find.
"Then I had my son and that completely changed my world. I had to stop the corporate life and become a mum.
"I started volunteering at a studio and that just took off. I enjoyed the teaching and I saw a need in the community."
The turning point came when another potter suggested she view a potential studio premises.
In a post on social media, Tracy said: “I walked through the door and it just felt like home.”
Despite the higher-than-budgeted rent, Tracy took the plunge and began planning her business.
Tracy has since arranged kiln installations and insurance, organised workshops, completed paperwork and fitted out the studio while caring for her young son.
But Tracy says it has all been worth it.
Tracy Hare who has opened The Potty Hare in Darlington. (Image: SARAH CALDECOTT)
She said: "The experience you get with clay, it calms people down, it switches life off, people become very relaxed.
"I want people to experience that."
The response on social media has reassured Tracy that Darlington wants pottery classes.
She said: "I couldn't have imagined.
"People have been so positive, kind and generous.
"I can't keep up with the messages."
(Image: SARAH CALDECOTT)
(Image: SARAH CALDECOTT)
(Image: SARAH CALDECOTT)
The studio offers beginner hand-building classes, hare sculpture workshops and Christmas-themed sessions.
The studio is open from 10am to 3pm Monday to Friday and from 10am to noon on Sundays.
Evening sessions run from 6pm to 8pm on Mondays and Tuesdays.
Tracy hopes The Potty Hare will become a creative hub for everyone from experienced potters to complete beginners.
She said: “Whether you've been working with clay for years or have absolutely no idea what you're doing, there is always so much to learn and explore.”
The Potty Hare is at Unit 3, Evans Business Centre, Lingfield Way, Darlington, DL1 4QZ.