Counsellor, Ceramic Artist & Group facilitator
From my hands to yours
Clay can be approached practically, creatively, or expressively; there is no “right” way to create!. Each session is shaped around what you want from the experience.
About SJ
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I’m SJ Bolton-Locke, founder of Elemental Roots. I work with clay as both an artist and a hand-building potter, and I’m also a therapeutic counsellor. This combination strongly influences how I share space with others.
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My approach is gentle, adaptable, and responsive. I’m experienced in working with different learning styles, levels of confidence, and personal goals. Whether you learn best through demonstration, hands-on exploration, conversation, or quiet making, sessions are shaped to support you where you are.
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The aim is not perfection, but connection, to the clay, to the process, and to what you’re creating.
Pottery Sessions
Pottery sessions are a relaxed, creative space to work with clay in a way that is both therapeutic and enjoyable. Whether you’re looking for focused one-to-one guidance, a shared creative experience with a friend, or a small group workshop, sessions are gently paced and shaped around your needs.
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Working with clay is deeply grounding. It engages the hands, calms the nervous system, and invites you into the present moment. Through making functional objects such as mugs, bowls, vases, or exploring sculptural and expressive forms, clay becomes a way to slow down, connect, and create something meaningful.
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No previous experience is needed — these sessions are suitable for complete beginners as well as those wanting to develop confidence or explore clay more intuitively.
1–1 & Small Group Pottery Making Sessions
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Hands-on guidance in hand-building pottery techniques
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Making functional or sculptural pieces at your own pace
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A calm, supportive and playful atmosphere
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Time to explore creativity without pressure or expectation
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Finished ceramic pieces to keep and use once fired
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Clay can be approached practically, creatively, or expressively — there is no “right” way to make. Each session is shaped around what you want from the experience.
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Session Options & Pricing
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1-1 at my home studio (Brockworth, Gloucester) £50 per hour
Ideal for personalised guidance, focused learning, or a therapeutic creative experience tailored entirely to you. This can include counselling and mentoring if you are searching for a creative way to talk through anything. Or simply as it is, a fun way to immerse yourself into clay and work on skill and individual style and creative process.
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Two People in my home studio (Shared Session) £95 per hour
Perfect for friends, partners, or family members who want to create together while receiving guided support. I can guide you to make something specific or you can suggest something and I will support your process and creation of the item.
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Small Group Workshops
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£65 per person - held at Kingsley House which is off Shurdington Rd, in-between Gloucester and Cheltenham near to the A417, GL51 4TQ OR Studio 2B Slad Rd Stroud
2.5-hour session or (full day 6 hours - please ask for a quote)
Small, relaxed group workshops designed for shared creativity and connection between 4-10 people
Includes all materials, refreshments provided, and finished pieces fired and ready to take home at a later collection date
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Larger group sessions can be arranged and held at other locations, please get in touch to explore the options and we can go from there.
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What’s Included
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All clay, tools, and materials
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Refreshments during your session
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Firing of your finished pieces
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Handmade ceramic items to take home and keep
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