What would ForEveryone be without its workshops? And what would the workshops be without their workshop leaders and teachers? We introduce them to you in our new interview series, Creative Minds at ForEveryone. We start with our pottery teacher, Silvia, who hosts our most popular workshop:
Can you tell us something about yourself?
Sure! I’m Silvia, originally from Venezuela, and living in Berlin for almost 3 years now. My background is in architecture and art, but I’ve always been drawn to projects that connect creativity and community.
I’m now a volunteer as a pottery teacher and workshop leader at ForEveryone, where I get to combine all my passions: organising, creating, and helping people feel connected through hands-on experiences.
What is the concept of the pottery workshop?
The pottery workshop is a space for creativity, learning, and connection. It’s open to everyone, regardless of skill level.
We focus on hand-building techniques (no pottery wheel) so it’s very accessible and calming. The idea is not only to create beautiful pieces but also to take time for yourself, meet others, and experience the therapeutic aspect of working with clay.
What is your personal journey to becoming a pottery teacher?
I actually started by joining the workshop myself while I was looking for a creative outlet and a place to meet people in Berlin. I instantly fell in love with the process and the atmosphere.
Over time, I got more involved, first helping in the workshop and later taking on more responsibility until I became part of the organising team. It’s been a very organic journey.
You also work with other volunteers, who are they and how is that going?
Yes! Our team is made up of volunteers from all over the world and with different backgrounds. Some have experience with ceramics, others are passionate about community, social media, technology, board games.
We’re really diverse and that brings a lot of richness to the workshop. We support each other, learn from each other, and try to keep the space inclusive and welcoming. It’s teamwork at its best.
What makes the ForEveryone pottery workshop a special experience?
It’s a moment of pause in the week. We create a calm, judgment-free space where people can slow down, connect with themselves and others, and leave feeling a bit lighter.
It’s affordable and community-driven, which makes it accessible to people who might not attend a typical art course. In addition, because we’re a non-profit, the atmosphere feels more personal and intentional.
How do you (and your team of volunteers) bring your personal touch to the workshop?
We all bring a little piece of ourselves! Some of us bring music, good conversation, humor, or ceramic tips from TikTok or YouTube. We’re encouraged to share our personalities and stories, and that energy makes the workshop feel more like a community than a class. As a pottery teacher, I personally like to bring care and good organisation, making sure people feel welcome and seen.
How is creativity linked to general wellbeing?
Creativity is a powerful tool for wellbeing. When we create something, especially with our hands, we focus on the present moment and step away from screens, stress, and overthinking.
Clay is very grounding. It helps people reconnect with their senses and emotions. Even if you’re not talking about your day, your hands are expressing something, and that’s healing.
What do you wish participants will experience during the workshop?
I hope they leave with a smile, a sense of calm, and maybe a little pride in what they created. I want them to feel like they had some time just for themselves, and that they were part of something warm and inclusive. And maybe, that they found a bit more confidence in their creativity or perhaps a new hobby.
What is the best feedback you have ever had on a pottery session?
One person once said: “I didn’t have the feeling of checking on my phone during the whole session” That meant so much, because in this hyper-connected world it’s rare to truly disconnect. Especially in a room full of strangers. The fact that they felt so present and engaged told me that the workshop offers something more than just a creative activity.
Pottery creates a space where people can feel safe, focused, and connected with themselves and with others. That’s the best compliment we can get. (Of course, having your hands covered in clay helps a lot with keeping phones out of reach, haha!)
Thank you Silvia!
Look out for further Creative Minds blogs in the future, as we introduce you to the dedicated people who show up week after week, with passion, commitment, and enthusiasm. Join them and us to create an open space for creative expression, belonging, diversity, and wellbeing.