Learning disabled artists in Hertfordshire and Essex are changing how creativity, talent and contribution are seen – and their work is being enjoyed by royalty.
Too often, learning disabled people are overlooked as artists, makers or professionals.
Learning disabled people are too often defined by the support they need rather than seen for the talent, ambition and contribution they offer, meaning their achievements can go unseen and uncelebrated.
This Learning Disability Week, under the theme Do You See Me?, artists at Hft’s Pottery Studio in Hertfordshire are challenging those assumptions — by being seen for the works they create.
At The Potting Shed, based at Hft’s Pound Lane Garden Centre, every planter, vase and sculpture has been designed, shaped and fired by local learning disabled artists. From glazed crowns and striking whale tails to colourful pots and bowls, each piece reflects the individual behind it.
The Pottery Studio is a weekly creative space where artists develop skills, explore techniques and bring their ideas to life.
Led by qualified tutor and local artist Linda Morris, sessions are shaped around people’s interests, strengths and ways of working — enabling each artist to create in a way that suits them.
For Joseph, pottery has become a way to express ideas and share his work with others. To mark the coronation of King Charles III, he created a glazed ceramic crown. With support from the team at Bradbury Garden Centre, he sent a photograph of the piece to Buckingham Palace – receiving a letter in return.
Earlier this year, recognition reached a new level when a handmade pottery vase created by artists at the studio was presented to HRH The Princess Royal during a visit — a powerful moment of visibility and pride for everyone involved.
“It is so exciting to think that a member of the royal family has a piece of pottery which we designed and made,” said Joseph who attends the weekly sessions.
“I was also very proud to get the letter back from the palace thanking me for the crown,” said Joseph. “I really enjoyed making the piece because it was a big moment for the country.”
Joseph’s large ceramic whale tail, displayed in the garden centre grounds, has also drawn attention — leading to commissions for further pieces.
Beyond individual achievement, the studio’s work speaks to a bigger story about access, opportunity and recognition.
Finished pieces are sold in the garden centre shop, displayed locally and exhibited at events including Little Canfield’s annual art exhibition and the Countess of Warwick Country Show, where artists have received awards.
Work from the Pottery Studio is much prized locally. Many of the pieces are purchased by the local community, with all income from sales is reinvested into the studio, sustaining future opportunities.
This Learning Disability Week, these artists are asking a simple question: when you look at their work, do you see support — or do you see artists?
“It’s about recognising talent and individuality,” said tutor Linda Morris.
“When someone sees their work displayed, bought or celebrated, it shows what’s possible when creativity is given space to grow.”
