Julia, who previously worked in healthcare, felt a strong need to do something more creative while continuing to work with people. ‘Sharing my interest in ceramics with others became a natural path for me,’ she says. Maria, with a background in the world of organisations and as an art therapist, also found a deep connection with the therapeutic properties of ceramics. ‘Clay has an incredible ability to calm and focus the mind,’ Maria explains.
Their vision for Leera was to create a studio where anyone, regardless of background or experience, could come and explore their creativity. They offer courses for all levels, from beginners to advanced, and have managed to get support from various funds to offer reduced or free courses to, for example, young people and undocumented migrants. ‘Ceramics is an expensive hobby,’ explains Maria, ‘but with the support we have received, we can make it accessible to more people.’
The Leera studio is also unique in its multilingual environment. Although courses are often held in Swedish, all languages are welcomed, creating a rich and inclusive atmosphere. ‘We like to create a multilingual environment where everyone feels welcome,’ says Julia.
Julia started making ceramics as a child in France and resumed it later in life at Arbis alongside her work. ‘The best moment of the week was when I got to touch the clay,’ she recalls. This led her to take time off from her job to further her education in ceramics. Maria, on the other hand, became fascinated by clay through her work as an art therapist and decided to immerse herself in this craft. ‘Working with clay is relaxing and requires total presence,’ she explains.
Building the Leera studio has been a real journey. With a lot of joint effort and a bit of luck, they have managed to create the studio from scratch. ‘It's a lot of work to keep the studio clean and dust-free, but we also try to make time for our own creation,’ Maria explains. ‘That's what we love the most and that's where we find our inspiration.’
For Maria and Julia, Konstrundan is an important event. In the past, they have participated as visitors, but this year they are participating for the first time as exhibitors. ‘Konstrundan is a great opportunity to see how other studios work, to be inspired and share ideas,’ says Julia. ‘It's also a chance to connect with other artisans in the area.’
During the Art Tour, visitors will get to touch clay, familiarise themselves with the material and enjoy a cup of coffee in an inspiring environment. ‘We want visitors to feel the atmosphere in our studio and let the clay inspire them,’ says Maria. At Leera, ceramicist Noora Louhi also welcomes visitors during the Art Tour.
Maria and Julia have created a place where creativity flows and where everyone is welcome to explore the fascinating world of ceramics. Their journey, from studying at Axxell to founding Leera, is an inspiring example of how to combine passion and profession to create something unique and valuable for society.