Charlie De Deyne of Mas & Miek on Newstead’s evolution and sharing joy through ceramics
When the grind of the nine-to-five lifestyle gets too much, it’s helpful to have a hobby. Switching your brain into a different mode can do wonders for stress levels – especially when your outlet of choice is a hands-on hobby. Mas & Miek Ceramic House is not just a place where curious crafters can learn a new skill, but also escape the bustle of everyday life. Founded eight years ago by mother-daughter duo Mieke and Charlie De Deyne, Mas & Miek in Newstead is a widely adored institution – a place of craft and connection. We had a chat with Charlie De Deyne about Mas & Miek’s evolution into a beloved outlet for Brisbane locals, the most fulfilling parts of her job, and her thoughts on Newstead’s exciting growth.
To start, we’d love to know more about the origins of Mas & Miek Ceramic House. What inspired you and your mother to launch the business back in 2017?
We have been working together creatively under the collaborative name Mas & Miek since 2011. The idea for the studio came about when many friends and family were asking for a lesson on the pottery wheel or even to just come in and visit us in the studio. We loved the idea of sharing the joy that ceramics brings, but our hinterland studio was too small – so that is where the idea for Mas & Miek Ceramic House came from!
Mas & Miek Ceramic House has evolved into a cherished creative outlet for many Brisbane locals. What is your approach to creating a welcoming and nurturing environment for people to try their hand at making ceramics, sometimes for the first time?
Something that my mother and I have always been aware of since opening – and we always talk this through with staff – is that people come into our studios for many different reasons. It may be just an opportunity to relax and try something new with a friend, but we also have people coming in for stress relief (often paid by their companies they work for). We have even had students come in because their grievance councillor has recommended it and we have students come in during palliative care. We always discuss at staff meetings the importance of treating each student with patience and kindness, as each person has their own story and their own reason for reaching out to clay at this time in their lives.
What is it about the art of making ceramics that you think people are drawn to?
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There was actually a great example of this last week in my 6 Week Beginner Course. I heard a student say, “I haven’t looked at my phone in three hours, I never do that.” That certainly isn’t the only reason, but I do feel that people are craving a craft or a hobby that grounds them and gives them a break from the everyday noise of life. When people book into a course, they are booking in three hours of ‘you time’ each week. It’s an important thing to do.
What would you say is the most fulfilling part of your job?
I have had students and studio members say to me that the Ceramic House has bought them so much happiness. I am really proud that we created a business that does that.
Mas & Miek Ceramic House has become a Newstead institution – what made you choose the suburb as the studio’s base of operations?
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This April we have been in business eight years on Byres Street and we absolutely love Newstead. Our choice of location came from us falling in love with the building and the natural light that fills it, but as time went on and Newstead grew around us we are so happy we chose this location.
What do you think makes Newstead such a special place to live and work?
We are so fortunate that we have such variety all around us! There are so many great places to eat and shop, but it would be remiss of me to not include our gorgeous park and river walk too.
When you’re not busy creating, what Newstead haunts do you love to frequent for a coffee, a bite to eat or a cheeky drink?
My mum and I love to grab a bite at Puck on the river, especially when the sun is shining and there is a gentle river breeze. But, nine times out of ten, you will find myself – and the other staff from the studio – at Range Brewing!
Running a small business can be a stressful endeavour – are there any Newstead spots you go to when you need to relax and unwind?
If I need to clear my head or just have a little break, I love to stroll down the river to Newstead House and sit on the grass and breathe for a bit.
As Brisbane continues to evolve, Newstead will no doubt remain a flourishing epicentre of culture. In what ways are you excited to see Newstead grow in the coming years?
There are so many new buildings near completion now, which is very exciting! I can’t wait to see what new restaurants and boutiques join our Newstead community.
This article was written in partnership with our friends at LIV Anura, now renting in Newstead and ready to move in. The Weekend Edition has teamed up with LIV Anura to create the LIV Shortlist, a collection of the best food and drink spots to try in Newstead. Sign up to book in for a tour and rent a brand-new Mirvac apartment, plus get access to bonus special offers. T&Cs apply. Visit LIV Anura’s website for details here.