Region potters on despite recession

West Cork was traditionally renowned as a haven for potters — but harsh times mean many are now being forced to support themselves by teaching, or working in call centres or jobs in the retail sector.

However, while the economic downturn has had a serious impact on the sector, many potters are still continuing to work at their craft on a part-time basis in the hope that things will improve, says Etain Hickey, a ceramic artist and gallery owner in Clonakilty.

“A lot of potters would have been making their living full-time from their craft before the recession,” said Ms Hickey. She says around 80% of the potters she knows have been forced to find new ways to support themselves as the general public increasingly cuts back on its discretionary spending: