Ancient forms: spirits in clay

Join this 3-week course where you will learn about the origins of pottery-making while getting inspired by ancient shapes, symbols and traditions.

Many cultures have honoured their ancestors and other spirits for thousands of years through festivals and customs. Together we will explore these traditions from antiquity until today and see how these still influence our lives.

What to expect:

• In the first 2 meetings, you’ll learn everything you need to know about hand-building pottery (how to work with clay, techniques, handling tools, decoration, glueing and much more).
• Each week you will be inspired by ancient pottery and art to make your experience and objects unique (topics: feasts of ancestors & spirits).
• The last meeting is dedicated to glazing your pieces making your objects safe and ready to use.
• You will have personalised learning in a small group of participants with guidance for all skill levels and interests.
• You will feel confident and relaxed in a creative and friendly environment.
• Some pieces can be coloured on the same day using underglazes, providing instant gratification and enhancing your pottery-making experience.
• The class price includes all materials, including clay, tools, and glazes, as well as firing services.
• Your pieces will be fired within 2 weeks, depending on how busy the studio is.
• We keep the pieces at the studio for max 3 months.

Agenda

19:00 - 19:20    Archaeological & historical approach: Alexandra presents the ancient topic with its archaeological and historical contexts.

19:20 - 19:45    Ceramic technique demo: Özlem makes a demo about the hand-building techniques of the day.

19:45 - 21:20    Creating pottery: Students apply the techniques to their own ideas and projects.

About Dr. Alexandra Dolea 

Alexandra is a doctor in ancient history and archaeology. She has been participating in numerous excavation projects for over 15 years. During this course, she will acquaint you with the everyday life of ancient people and their ceramics. 

About Özlem Taskin Önen 

Özlem is the founder of commonroom and an architect. She has worked with clay for over 20 years and has given numerous workshops and classes.