10/06/2025
On Wednesdays, at work, we host discussion groups. This is where clients can come along as we discuss/debate different topics that have been part of public discourse.
A few weeks back we discussed the closure of Moorcroft Pottery, and how the loss of industry effects local identity, culture, and perceptions of heritage.
It was a great discussion, and I was particularly struck with the input from one of our volunteer cooks.
She had worked in the pottery industry for her whole career, before retiring, and, as she told her stories, I was encapsulated by the joy, pride, purpose, and meaning that emanated from her.
I began to think of people I have known to own the sorts of expensive pieces she created, and, whilst it was a source of some joy and pride, I realised that it meant so much more to the creator than it did the owner.
Of course, as always, my mind turned to ideas of class 🤣
When I asked questions that probed this concept, it was clear that the feelings of pride and experiences of comradery eclipsed the possibility of her viewing her labour as being exploited.
I thought this posed and interesting question for left-wing commentators in the area. With industry being such a key element in our history, how do we balance leftist perceptions of labour against celebrating our heritage?
With all of these thoughts swirling, I sat down and expressed it in this piece
