Workshop | Hand Building Clay: Candle Holders, Luminaries & Lanterns

This course is part of a long-weekend workshop, beginning on Thursday, April 16th and ending on Sunday, April 19th. Class sessions run Thursday evening 7 pm – 9 pm, Friday 9:30 am – 12:30 pm & 2 pm – 5 pm, Saturday 9:30 am – 12:30 pm & 2 pm – 5 pm with Open Studio Saturday 6pm – 9pm and additional programming Thursday and Sunday.

This course invites students into a hands-on exploration of functional ceramics designed to carry light into the home and shared spaces of gathering. Through discussion, collaboration, and the sharing of personal rituals and traditions around light, participants will shape clay with intention and care. Students will learn foundational hand-building techniques of pinch, coil, and slab to create a pierced-form luminary and additional candle holders inspired by individual vision. Rooted in use and meaning, this course centers the joy of making objects meant to be lit, handled, and enjoyed in daily life.

What creative modalities are used in this course?

Traditional hand-building techniques

What will class time be like?

The course will open with an opportunity to play and make first connections with clay. Progressing into discussion, inspiration, and introduction to techniques. You will develop your clay pieces using traditional hand building methods, and experiment with  surface decoration techniques.

Will I need to work outside of class?

Depending on the complexity of your project vision some work may be needed outside of class but is not required.

Do I need experience to take this class?

Beginners welcome, as are experienced folks.

What do I need to bring to class?

Dress to get messy. Bring thoughts on the significance of light to personal rituals and traditions both literally and figuratively.