"For the first time in my life, I feel like I have a purpose." 

 Oakham artist Connie Taylor describes the experience of turning her life around when she started experimenting with ceramics. 

Situated in her cosy shop on the corner of Mill Street, Connie has built her own creative sanctuary, allowing her to fulfil her creativity while making unique pieces that bring joy to her customers. 

Connie's shop is full of bright colours, fun textures and unique pieces (Photo: Grace Kennington)

However, until 12 years ago, Connie had never touched clay. Instead, she worked in the Human Resources department at Corby Steel. After taking time off to have her three children, she struggled to return to work. She felt overwhelmed and stuck where she was, opting to take redundancy after having to take time off for her mental health. 

Connie then stayed at home caring for her three children and agreed with her husband that Friday afternoons would be designated as 'her time,' where she could have her own space away from the home. In this time she joined Ashwell pottery workshop, only ever having previously drawn on blank clay pieces, never making her own. 

"The moment I touched the clay, I realised how versatile it was," explained Connie. She felt inspired by the clay and the creative people around her. After 18 months of pottery classes, she bought her own kiln, glazes and clay, continuing working with the group as a volunteer helping others. 

Painted cat ornaments by Connie Taylor Ceramics (Photo: Grace Kennington)

From that point, she began doing local markets, trade fairs and displayed her work in Oakham's Victoria Hall. This was bought to a sudden stop by the Covid-19 pandemic, cancelling all her craft shows and destroying her income stream. 

Connie then approached Victoria Hall, asking if she could rent an empty office for three months to see how she got on working in her own space. She stayed in Victoria Hall from April 2021 to August 2024, growing her public recognition and building connections within the local community. 

In August 2024, she felt established enough that when an empty shop became available on Mill Street, she took the scary step to open her own shop. Initially she was very worried it would be lonely having a space on her own but now her business has flourished with customers regularly coming in to chat, as well as hiring three part time members of staff to help in the shop. 

Connie Taylor Ceramics is situated at 1 Mill Street, Oakham (Photo: Grace Kennington)

Describing her shop and business, Connie said: 'this lets me live that dream out. I am free to create and I am always so inspired. 

"I walk through life and it is full of ideas." 

Connie's shop has become a popular local business, known for it's excellent selection of gifts and unique pieces, each overflowing with Connie's electric personality and colourful expression. 

"Success to me," said Connie, "is not about how much money I make, it's about knowing I've made a difference. I've helped people, I've cared for the earth, I've even made one person smile." 

To see more of Connie's work, check out her website or visit her shop on the corner of Mill Street in Oakham.