Big news is brewing in the heart of London - SET Ceramics has been shortlisted for Best Newcomer at the Toast the City Awards 2026, and it's set to be a real showstopper! This vibrant hub for pottery and creative expression has only been open since July last year, but it's already making waves in the city's cultural scene.
Located in a beautifully refurbished former cobbler's shop on Crutched Friars, close to Fenchurch Street Station, SET Ceramics is a project by SET, a wider contemporary arts charity that's been making a significant impact in just under a year. What sets it apart from the rest is its unique dual function as both an independent workspace for member artists and an accessible, artist-led environment for the public - think of it like a sports stadium where creatives can come together to innovate and experiment.
The studio's diverse range of activities is truly impressive, including courses, workshops, private classes, and kiln hire. And what's more, all its courses are taught by practising artists who bring their own studio methods and creative philosophies to the table - it's like having your favourite coach leading a masterclass! Take, for example, Lin YingTong's new four-week wheel throwing course, which draws on her background in visual communication design and extensive training from Jingdezhen, China, a city renowned for its porcelain heritage.
Ella Cairns, site manager and technician at SET Ceramics, highlights the studio's commitment to small class sizes - typically between four to six students - which ensures every individual gets deep-down, hands-on attention. It's not just about mastering technical skills; it's also about experimentation and enjoyment. Cairns describes the studio as providing a "genuine somatic and tactile sanctuary" where people can switch off from their high-speed digital lives and get stuck in with clay.
Of course, there have been challenges along the way - building local awareness has been tough due to its unconventional nature for the City. But this nomination is a major opportunity to shine a light on their work and the wider charity's mission to reintroduce grassroots creative culture into the heart of London. The studio, supported by Eastern City BID, aims to reinvest in the arts and connect with the local community, offering discounted access to City residents as part of its goal to foster a neighbourhood of makers.
The Toast the City Awards celebrate the best of the Square Mile's bars, restaurants, galleries, and green spaces - SET Ceramics' nomination is a testament to its unique contribution to the city's evolving cultural landscape. Let's keep our fingers crossed they take home the top prize!