Cochrane resident Nicole Byl, 29, has turned a life-long passion into a rewarding career.
Byl discovered pottery in Grade 5 while taking community classes in her hometown of St. Albert. Additional classes with potters and an apprenticeship followed, increasing her love for the medium.
“I have always liked getting my hands dirty,” said Byl.
“I have always liked the medium - just being able to make anything out of it. The only limit is your imagination.”
Byl spent years developing her hobby, while studying computer engineering technology and later working as a flight attendant.
Two years ago, Byl decided to take the plunge, quit her job and opened her own pottery studio in Cochrane, turning herself into a full-time artist, teacher and studio manager.
It has been a dream come true.
“An opportunity arose and I just realized that my hobby could be my career if I wanted it to be,” said Byl.
“It is a risky venture, but I would rather risk it and be happy. I would rather be doing this than anything else.”
Byl specializes in durable, functional pieces such as plates, bowls, jugs and teapots, that can be used everyday.
Most of her pieces are done in earth tones and are traditionally shaped. However, she has a unique turquoise line that sets her pieces apart.
“I try to make things that people can use as opposed to something that people put on their shelf,” said Byl.
“It is a passion for creating something out of nothing, the possibilities are pretty endless with clay.”
A recent career move has prompted Byl to open Saffron Collective Studio, which features a full pottery studio and space for other artists.
In addition to her art, Byl focuses much of her attention on teaching.
In fact, she teaches both daytime and evening classes for adults and children.
She loves the slower paced lifestyle in Cochrane and the friendly, welcoming people.
“We fell in love with it,” said Byl.
“It has the small town feel where people are friendly. They say ‘hi’ to you on the street, you can go to the grocery store and see someone you know.”
Byl’s pottery is available at Derry and Wallis Trading Company in Water Valley, and at Saffron, a giftware store featuring Canadian artisans, in Cochrane.
