Everything You Need to Know for Leeds Ceramic Fair at HEART

Ever walked past a shop window and seen a really cool, unique-looking mug or a colourful plant pot and wondered where it came from? Chances are, it was made by a local artist, someone who loves getting their hands messy with clay. Well, get ready, because a whole bunch of these talented folks are coming together for the very first Leeds Ceramic Fair. On Saturday 14 March 2026, the place to be is HEART in Headingley, where all things pottery will be celebrated. It’s a fantastic chance to see some amazing art, meet the people who make it, and maybe even find a new favourite thing for your room.

So, what’s a ceramic fair all about?

Imagine a market, but instead of fruit and veg, every stall is piled high with incredible things made from clay. That’s pretty much what the Leeds Ceramic Fair is. It’s a one-day event where you can wander around and see the work of loads of different artists. Think of it as a gallery you can touch (carefully, of course!). You get to chat with the potters themselves, and they can tell you the story behind each piece. One minute you could be looking at a delicate, paper-thin porcelain bowl, and the next you could be holding a chunky, rustic mug that feels perfect for a hot chocolate on a cold day. Over 20 individual potters will be there, which means a massive variety of styles and ideas will be on show.

And it's not just for browsing. Everything is for sale, so it's the perfect place to find a really special gift for someone, or just a treat for yourself. Forget mass-produced stuff you see in big shops; these are one-of-a-kind items made with a lot of care and skill right here in our corner of England. The fair is being supported by the Northern Potters Association, a brilliant organisation that helps artists connect with each other and show their work to more people. These kinds of events are brilliant for shining a light on local talent in Leeds.

More than just pots and plates

When someone says ‘pottery’, you might just think of plates, bowls, and mugs. But there’s so much more to it than that. The artists at the Leeds Ceramic Fair will be showcasing an amazing range of creations. You might find quirky sculptures for the garden, beautiful handmade tiles, intricate jewellery, or even abstract art pieces that would look amazing on a shelf. It’s all about what the artist can imagine and create from a simple lump of clay. It’s a craft that’s been around for thousands of years, but people are always finding new ways to be creative with it.

What’s really special about this event is its focus on community. As well as individual artists, there will be three community groups showing their work. This is all about building a friendly, collaborative community where local potters can share ideas, support each other, and grow together. It's not a competition; it’s a celebration of a shared passion. So, when you’re there, you’re not just looking at objects; you’re seeing the result of a whole network of creative people coming together. One of the key organisers from the Northern Potters Association, Alison Young, has been instrumental in bringing this vision of a collaborative community to life in Leeds.

The perfect venue: HEART in Headingley

The fair is being held at a place called HEART, which stands for Headingley Enterprise and Arts Centre. And the name really fits. It’s a proper community hub, a place where people go for classes, workshops, gigs, and, of course, brilliant events like this one. It’s a friendly, welcoming space, which makes it the ideal spot for the first-ever Leeds Ceramic Fair. It's not some stuffy, silent gallery; it's a lively building with a great atmosphere, making it a fun day out for everyone, whether you’re a serious art collector or just a bit curious.

Here’s a quick look at what makes the fair a must-visit:

• When: Saturday 14 March 2026

• Where: HEART (Headingley Enterprise and Arts Centre), Leeds

• Who: Over 20 individual potters plus 3 community groups

• What: A huge variety of handmade items made from clay

• Why: To support local artists and find something truly unique!