London Metal Clay - Diploma Support Centre

Owner: Helen Foster-Turner

Location: Harrow, Middlesex

Easy access from Metropolitan, Piccadilly and Central Lines plus Chiltern Railways

Address: 30 Carlyon Avenue, Harrow, Middlesex, HA2 8SX

Tel: 07710 393525

Information about Helen

Since I can remember, I have made things, drawn things, crafted things and painted things and this creative element has always been an important part of my life.

I have been making jewellery for several years but always found that I needed or wanted a particular bead or shape to go with my work. It was then that I found out about silver clay. I began with a starter kit and six weeks later I was attending a masterclass in Corfe Castle with Gordon Uyehara and created a bracelet which I wear almost daily.

I developed the silver clay habit and having created the bracelet, I was itching to do more but apart from a few pieces at home unfortunately circumstances last year prevented it. However, I looked around at the available qualification options and decided on two. One was the all important and internationally recognised Mid Cornwall School of Jewellery Metal Clay Diploma which gave me a broad range of skills, including traditional silversmithing, that would raise my competence and ensure that I could deliver the best training available to my students. The other courses were Art Clay Levels 1 and 2.

With my professional experience of teaching, learning and mentoring gained over many years, I really wanted to be able to share this amazing substance so providing courses and support was what I wanted to do. I also felt then, and still do, that if you are going to teach people then you really want to make sure that that the students that come to you are delighted with their own creations and able to get consistently good results.

Such was my level of commitment to the silver clay cause that I commissioned a purpose built studio in late Spring which was completed, fully equipped and operational by May this year, 2011. It is designed to comfortably take up to four students in a bright, garden set environment. Private tuition is also available.

I look forward to helping to create more silver clay enthusiasts in the near future. Whether you are just starting out or looking to further your skill level, I am looking forward to meeting and hopefully working with you.

Helen's Qualifications and Experience

MCSJ Silver Metal Clay Diploma, Art Clay Level 1, bracelet master class with Gordon Uyehara. Currently working towards MCSJ Higher Diploma with classes in bronze and copper clay, a textures class and Art Clay Level 2 also booked for later this year.

Diploma Support Services Provided

Kiln firing services – drop in or post service
Critique sessions for students’ pieces before MCSJ evaluation
General local help and advice

Classes offered which support the Diploma Grade 1 Home Study Course:

Introduction to Metal Clay courses
One to One customised sessions
Project courses designed to expand knowledge of techniques, including those needed for the Home Study Course

London Metal Clay's Studio

Celebrethil Studo