History
In April, 2007, the Mullumbimby Adult Learning and Potters Association (MALA) became an incorporated body. The MALA management committee has supervised & funded all aspects of organisation and maintenance at both the Studio and the Gallery. All matters are in accordance with the NSW Office of Fair Trading policy and procedures.
In 2009, members formed a partnership with local providers of services for people with special needs in the community, offering weekly workshops on a volunteer basis. This has become a highly successful program and has received grant funding from the Mullumbimby Ex-Services Club and Byron Shire Council and The Ocean Shores Art Expo. Currently up to 15 people, supported by their carers are participating through the organisations Multitask, Red Ink, Arcadia (Accommodation network) and Murwillumbah Special needs Class. The members fund-raise to sustain this valuable community program.
In November, 2010, members held a successful pottery exhibition in the Audrey Hoving studio, and as a consequence, the decision was made to convert this space into a Gallery. Substantial refurbishment was undertaken by the members, followed by an official opening in June 2011. The Gallery features the work of Clayworker members, local artists as well as displaying the work of the special needs group.
In 2009, members formed a partnership with local providers of services for people with special needs in the community, offering weekly workshops on a volunteer basis. This has become a highly successful program and has received grant funding from the Mullumbimby Ex-Services Club and Byron Shire Council and The Ocean Shores Art Expo. Currently up to 15 people, supported by their carers are participating through the organisations Multitask, Red Ink, Arcadia (Accommodation network) and Murwillumbah Special needs Class. The members fund-raise to sustain this valuable community program.
In November, 2010, members held a successful pottery exhibition in the Audrey Hoving studio, and as a consequence, the decision was made to convert this space into a Gallery. Substantial refurbishment was undertaken by the members, followed by an official opening in June 2011. The Gallery features the work of Clayworker members, local artists as well as displaying the work of the special needs group.
In honour of life member Joyce Cambridge, the Pottery Studio was renamed the Joyce Cambridge studio in 2011. Joyce, who devoted herself to promoting the art of pottery and inspired members, recently passed away, aged 98.
Around this time and for several years, the pottery studio was regularly accessed by the Byron Community College for classes in pottery, as part of its Adult Education programming.
Around this time and for several years, the pottery studio was regularly accessed by the Byron Community College for classes in pottery, as part of its Adult Education programming.
In July 2012, a new kiln manufactured by Steve Harrison, of Kiln & Clay Technology from Picton was installed. This new kiln, affectionately titled ‘Hot and Sticky ’ significantly increased the capacity for firing the members pottery.
