How The Little Arts Workshop Is Unlocking Creativity in Stortford - Jess Melton
Show notes
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Jessica Melton runs The Little Arts Workshop, a pottery painting and clay modelling studio in Bishop’s Stortford that has grown into much more than a place to decorate ceramics. Since taking over the business seven years ago, she has continued to build it into a creative space that welcomes children, families, adults, parties, community groups and anyone looking for somewhere to make something with their hands.
In this conversation, Jessica talks about the workshop as a safe and inclusive place where people can reconnect with creativity, especially if they have spent years believing they are “not artistic.” She explains why working in clay and pottery can feel more approachable than traditional two-dimensional art, and why giving people the right tools and environment can make such a difference to their confidence.
The episode also explores how the business has grown through collaboration. From pottery evenings at Paiser to pizza nights with Grace Makes Dough and links with other local community spaces, Jessica shares how independent businesses in Bishop’s Stortford can help each other reach new people and create something more than any one venue could do alone.
Links
Website
https://thelittleartsworkshop.com/
Instagram
https://www.instagram.com/thelittleartsworkshop/
Facebook
https://www.facebook.com/TheLittleArtsWorkshop
Stortford Spotlight
Billboard in Jackson Square
“You’re not bad at art, you just haven’t been given the right space.”
Jessica’s message is for everyone. Her view is that many people have written themselves off creatively because of one bad experience, when really they just have not yet found the right environment to explore it.
Secret Spot
Smokehouse Barbecue Kitchen - https://www.smokebbqkitchen.co.uk/
Jessica gives a strong shoutout to Smokehouse Barbecue Kitchen on Hockerill, praising the flavour, the atmosphere and the family-run feel. She describes it as the kind of place people need to try, even if she secretly hopes she can still get a table.
Local Legends
Jackson Square Community Space - https://www.jacksonsquareshopping.co.uk/community/community-space/
Jessica highlights the Jackson Square Community Space for giving artists, charities and community groups a visible platform in town. She praises the way vacant shops are being used to create opportunities for people who would not otherwise be able to afford a high street presence.
Support the Podcast
You can support The Bishop’s Stortford Community Podcast through The Giving Lottery.
Every ticket helps fund equipment, recording time, and the ongoing work of telling local stories while also supporting good causes.
Support here:
https://www.givinglottery.org.uk/support/bishops-stortford-community-podcast-cic