A brief history of the Central Coast Potters' Society
Much clay has passed through many hands since the Central Coast Potters' Society Inc. (known as CCPS) was born on the Australia Day weekend in 1968. Four local potters - Harry Arnall, Kitty Orvad, Joan Matthews and Margaret Keane advertised a public meeting to form a potters' society. Approximately 30 people responded, some of whom continue to be members today.
The aim of the CCPS is to increase the knowledge, experience and skill of members and students in the craft of pottery and to promote a greater appreciation and understanding of pottery by the general public. To achieve these aims workshop premises to house pottery making equipment were sought.
In 1969 the group leased the old Scout Hall in Terrigal and enthusiastically repaired it. Various complications followed the occupation of the hall until the land in Russell Drysdale Street (formerly Althorp Street) was made available for the arts. Gosford City Councillor Jim Tarbox was instrumental in realising this opportunity. Following extensive fundraising by the Potters, enough money was raised to meet the 50:50 building costs with the New South Wales State Government. The workshop at 10 Russell Drysdale Street, East Gosford was completed in 1980, the realisation of an objective raised in 1972.
The 40th birthday of CCPS was celebrated in 2008 with an exhibition of work by past and present members. 2013 brings us to the continued use of this building by the Central Coast Potters' Society. We've upgraded our facilities to include wheelchair access and disabled toilet facilities. The building also contains kilns, wheels, a small gallery, library, kitchen and a substantial workshop space. We are a very active group holding monthly committee meetings, classes, workshops by renowned potters, firing days and regular exhibitions. If it is to do with pottery, we are interested.
Most recently we published our website to reach a larger audience and move into the 21st century's technology age. Return to this website regularly to follow our further developments. For information about becoming a CCPS member, please click here.
The aim of the CCPS is to increase the knowledge, experience and skill of members and students in the craft of pottery and to promote a greater appreciation and understanding of pottery by the general public. To achieve these aims workshop premises to house pottery making equipment were sought.
In 1969 the group leased the old Scout Hall in Terrigal and enthusiastically repaired it. Various complications followed the occupation of the hall until the land in Russell Drysdale Street (formerly Althorp Street) was made available for the arts. Gosford City Councillor Jim Tarbox was instrumental in realising this opportunity. Following extensive fundraising by the Potters, enough money was raised to meet the 50:50 building costs with the New South Wales State Government. The workshop at 10 Russell Drysdale Street, East Gosford was completed in 1980, the realisation of an objective raised in 1972.
The 40th birthday of CCPS was celebrated in 2008 with an exhibition of work by past and present members. 2013 brings us to the continued use of this building by the Central Coast Potters' Society. We've upgraded our facilities to include wheelchair access and disabled toilet facilities. The building also contains kilns, wheels, a small gallery, library, kitchen and a substantial workshop space. We are a very active group holding monthly committee meetings, classes, workshops by renowned potters, firing days and regular exhibitions. If it is to do with pottery, we are interested.
Most recently we published our website to reach a larger audience and move into the 21st century's technology age. Return to this website regularly to follow our further developments. For information about becoming a CCPS member, please click here.
