Steve Manning – Sparking Creativity, One Burn at a Time.
Tucked away in the heart of Great Yarmouth, inside the familiar walls of PrimeYarc, you’ll find a little sanctuary of smoke, wood, and warmth — not from fire, but from friendship.
This is where Steve Manning, the founder of Pyrovision, runs his welcoming pyrography workshops, a place where people of all ages come to create, connect, and maybe even heal.
Taken from the interview with Steve by our friends at Lonelyllama
But Steve’s journey didn’t begin with a grand plan or business blueprint. In fact, Pyrovision started completely by accident.
In January 2024, Steve was going through a tough time, following a personal separation. He rented a small art studio on Stonecutters Way, simply to use as storage — a quiet space for reflection. What started as a hobby to clear his mind soon turned into something much more.
He began burning designs into wood, finding calm and focus in the creative process. Then, as life often does, something unexpected happened.
After being given a chance to exhibit his work at PrimeYarc, Steve found himself in the right place at the right time. One day, while buying a humble salad sandwich, he struck up a conversation with someone from Age Connected. He shared what he’d been doing with pyrography, and before he knew it, he was asked if he could run a workshop for some of their members.
That simple sandwich sparked what has now become a growing community space, where Steve teaches pyrography every Wednesday and Saturday from 12–4pm, and runs an after-school club on Fridays from 3:30–6pm.
Since August 2024, Steve has been quietly building something special — and organic — just by being himself and helping others find their creative spark.
What makes Steve’s story even more powerful is that everything so far has been entirely self-funded. From the tools and materials to the countless hours he’s given, it’s all come from his own pocket — driven by nothing but a deep belief in the value of what he offers.
Now, with a clear vision for the future, Steve is forming a Community Interest Company (CIC) to help grow Pyrovision and reach even more people who could benefit from the space, the skills, and the sense of belonging he brings to life.
From 6-year-olds to 96-year-olds, Steve welcomes anyone through the doors, creating a safe, judgment-free space for people to learn, laugh, and discover a talent they didn’t know they had.
“Even I’m surprised,” he says, “by how good people get at pyrography once they give it a go.”
Steve’s own interests are just as unique as his path. He admits he’s a bit of a collector — “weird items,” he chuckles — including an impressive collection of rifles.
But it’s not the items that define him; it’s his generosity of spirit. He’s created a space where even homeless visitors have popped in for a cuppa and a biscuit, and where no one is turned away.
His philosophy is simple:
“There’s lots of kind people in the world… but if you can’t find one — be one.”
Steve believes there’s no better gift than something made by hand. As he puts it.
“Flowers die… but pyrography doesn’t.”
So, if you’re curious, even just a little — pop by PrimeYarc on a Wednesday, Saturday, or Friday afternoon. Have a go. You might be surprised by what you can create… and what you discover in yourself.
From burnt wood to bright spirits – Steve’s always ready to welcome you in.
Check out this Slideshow of Steve at Work
Contact Steve: SteveM:GYUP.org
Check out Steve's Facebook Page.