Women-Only Pottery Workshops in Riyadh Promote Creativity and Wellness

In today's fast-paced world, finding a space for creativity and relaxation can be a challenge, especially for women. However, in the heart of Riyadh, a unique initiative is providing just that. Terracotta Studio, a women-only pottery space, is not only shaping clay but also nurturing creativity and wellness among its participants. This innovative studio, run by Ghada Al-Malki, offers women the opportunity to explore pottery as both an art form and a therapeutic escape.

Ghada Al-Malki, who has a background in psychology, understands the profound benefits that handicrafts can offer. She describes pottery as “a form of therapy,” emphasizing its ability to help individuals release negative energy. Located in the Al-Yasmin district of northern Riyadh, Terracotta Studio exclusively hosts workshops for women, creating a comfortable environment where they can express themselves freely.

Al-Malki's journey into the world of crafting began with beading, but her passion quickly expanded to pottery. She recalls, “When I worked with beads, I felt: Wow! So I thought I must learn another craft. I learned pottery and once I did I opened the studio.” This excitement and exhilaration are what she aims to share with her students. She believes that everyone should experience the joy and therapeutic benefits that pottery can provide, especially in today's hectic world.

At Terracotta Studio, women of all skill levels can participate in a variety of pottery workshops. Al-Malki teaches her students how to create cups, plates, and even paint their finished pieces. She notes, “Painting itself is an art.” The response to her workshops has exceeded her expectations, with many participants expressing how the experience has positively impacted their lives. Some have reported improved sleep and a greater sense of relaxation after attending her classes. Al-Malki shares, “The most satisfying part of running this studio is when a customer leaves happy and comes back to tell me: ‘Ghada, thank you, I really enjoyed it.’”

Despite the positive impact of her studio, Al-Malki faces challenges in running the business. She highlights the high rental prices and the scarcity of raw materials in Saudi Arabia as significant hurdles. “The biggest issue we face is real estate. Rental prices are high and raw materials are not available in Saudi Arabia, so they are expensive for us. But, thank God, we try to manage the challenges as much as we can,” she explains. Nevertheless, her determination to provide a creative outlet for women remains strong.

Looking ahead, Al-Malki hopes to expand the studio's offerings, particularly for children. She believes that children greatly benefit from engaging in crafts and playing with clay. “You cannot imagine how much children need this craft and playing with clay,” she states. In addition to regular workshops, Terracotta Studio also hosts exhibitions where students can showcase their work, further encouraging creativity and community.

Terracotta Studio stands as a beacon of creativity and wellness for women in Riyadh. By providing a safe and nurturing environment, Al-Malki is not only helping women explore their artistic talents but also offering them a much-needed escape from the stresses of daily life. As more women discover the therapeutic benefits of pottery, it is clear that spaces like Terracotta Studio are essential for fostering creativity and well-being in our communities.