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Pottery/Ceramics Workshop
October 3rd-8th 2009
Workshops are led
by Eunice.
The
principal impulse behind the rebirth of Yavanna as an artistic centre
has been her passion for pottery and ceramics. This is something she
loves to share with and teach to other people.
A highly
experienced and accomplished potter herself, she delights not only in
sharing her skills with those already familiar with clay as a medium,
but also introducing newcomers to it.
For All Levels of Skill and
Experience
The Yavanna studio
welcomes anyone and everyone attracted by the infinite creative
possibilities of working with clay. Whether you are a novice or an
expert, someone who enjoys working as part of a group or prefers to work
alone, your needs are fully respected. Each individual is welcome to
draw on the level of advice and guidance they need from Eunice. With her
motto `anything is possible’, Eunice encourages and supports workshops
members to find a way to turn their vision into completed works. Each
step of the process is carefully and clearly explained, giving people
experience not only of making, but glazing and firing, too.
In a
Delightful Environment
The studio has been
converted from an old, traditional barn. A beautifully light and
airy space, featuring a vaulted ceiling, it comfortably accommodates up
to 10 potters. It is comprehensively equipped, with both electric and
Raku kilns, four wheels, a slab roller and an array of moulds and tools.
Different types of clay are available, as is a wide range of glazes. For
many people, returning home with something they have created is one of
the great pleasures of their visit.
A Relaxed and
Relaxing Atmosphere
Eunice is well
aware of the importance of creating a balance between time spent in the
studio, and time to savour the delicious local cuisine, getting to know
fellow workshop members, and the beautiful natural countryside in which
Yavanna is set. Days are structured to respect this balance, ensuring
plenty of opportunities to enjoy expressing yourself in clay in an
environment blissfully free of stress or pressure.
Format of the
Pottery/Raku Workshop
We are sure you will enjoy time spent in
the studio, round Yavanna’s swimming pool, or admiring the surrounding
countryside from the garden. Should you feel inclined to venture
further afield, however, your needs are catered for. Optional
excursions are available to nearby markets, cities and beaches.
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This workshop is
designed for groups of up to 10, regardless of their level of experience
or ability. Eunice offers guidance on the creation of decorative or
functional pieces. All steps are covered, from initial concept and
design, through making, to glazing and conventional firing.
After breakfast, the mornings are devoted to work in the studio, with
breaks as needed. One of the features of Eunice’s workshops is the light
hearted atmosphere she creates, in which creative expression and
connection with other group members comes easily and naturally.
Following a delicious lunch featuring locally
grown food, there is plenty of time for swimming, walking, or simply
relaxing in the shade of vines or olive trees. Perhaps take a bike and
cycle through the vineyards. We return to the studio
once more as the afternoon becomes cooler.
This workshop features the fascinating Raku firing method. A centuries-old
technique which originated in Japan, it establishes a close relationship
between the potter and fire, the essential element in the process of
completing pottery.
Options
Because it is impossible to make pieces,
allow them to dry, bisque fire, and then glaze fire all in one week,
there are two options available for you:
1. Raku Only
On the final day of the workshop, the Raku kiln is ceremonially lit.
While the group’s pieces are being fired, they spend a convivial evening
enjoying a barbecue in the open air. Raku firing is a ritual process
with a unique quality, and the experience remains a delight even to
those familiar with it. You can then take your Raku pieces home with
you, or have them shipped home.
2.
Follow-on Weekend in the UK
After the workshop, Eunice will bisque fire
your pieces, and they will be shipped to the UK. The group will agree a
mutually agreeable date to meet again to complete the decorative process
(glaze, smoke fire, etc.) This normally happens a month or so after the
workshop. It is wonderful opportunity to meet up again and re-live the
fun and excitement of the workshop. This follow-on weekend workshop
takes place in a friendly studio in the Ashdown Forest in East Sussex.
This optional workshop costs £90. Please call Eunice to discuss the
details of this weekend further, such as accommodation, timings, etc.
Please see photos of the 2008 weekend below.
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