Gnomes, dragons, and mushrooms. When Cathy Herbert unleashes her creativity, she brings forth a world of fantasy that intrigues like no other. Having never before worked with clay, Cathy was amazed when she visited London Clay Art Centre in 2012. “Clay talks to me,” she says. “It moves me to create dysfunctional pottery”. Cathy’s pieces are intricately and skillfully crafted. Many of them take weeks to complete. She explains, “Time doesn’t matter when I’m here at LCAC. I’m surrounded by so many friends that I consider it my safe haven.”
As a teenager, Cathy developed Parkinson’s disease, a neurodegenerative disorder that causes movement problems. “I was depressed for a very long time,” she admits. “It hasn’t been easy for me, but when I came to LCAC, my life really changed for the better.” One of the things she loves most about LCAC is the non-judgemental environment. She notes “Everyone has a place here. It’s wonderful to see so many incredible people working in harmony. Gender, age, race, sexual preference, none of it matters. I can let my freak flag fly!”
An avid sculptor, Cathy also enjoys pit firing, working with mosaics, and painting. She has also proudly been an LCAC Board member for the past four years. “I have a voice at LCAC. My ideas are well received and it’s just a fantastic experience being part of such a wonderful and productive group.”
Cathy wishes that more people would become aware of, and realize the immense value that LCAC brings to the community. She praises its numerous workshops and classes and the creative outlet afforded to so many. “I’m happy here,” she confirms. “Even if I’m not sculpting or working on any piece in particular, I still come because this is my family. LCAC feels like home.”