Broadcast 31 March on Iranian state satellite TV (IRINN)

Announcer: Shahreza has long been known as one of the nation's pottery and ceramics industry centers.

The art of pottery in Shahreza is 700 years old. In this period the potters have worked as artists and their handmade goods are being shown to the world today.

These are artists such as Master Ali Fakharbashi, Master Ali Akbar Farhad, Master Mohammad Baqer Soheyli and Master Hoseyn Bahari. The names of Masters Ali Abbas, Yahya and Rahmatollah Soheyli in Shahreza recall the innovations of these three brother artists in converting traditional pottery to ceramics. This innovation was made more than 40 years ago.

Master Rahmatollah Soheyli is the only survivor of these three creative artists in the field of pottery.

Soheyli: I began working in this occupation at the age of 12 after completing six years of elementary school. My occupation is my heritage. My father was a potter and our grandfather was also a potter. I had several brothers who have passed away. They worked in this occupation and now their sons are working in it. I have been doing this for 55 years

Announcer: Now in Shahreza in addition to the traditional manufacture of pottery and ceramics, three masters are teaching this art in the classical tradition. The most important problems of those seeking to teach this art are the lack of kilns for practical instruction, the lack of standard tables and chairs or sufficient space for practical activity and the lack of an adequate or appropriate program for visiting the city's factories.

Handicraft industries, especially pottery and ceramics provide form to national identity and are a part of cultural life; they require more attention from officials.