3 Day Ceramic Workshop: Form, Function and the Joy of Experimentation

Clayground is excited to announce a workshop led by Michele Hickey

Join us for an exciting and challenging 3-day workshop designed for those comfortable with both wheel throwing and hand building but looking to challenge themselves creatively.  Together we will explore new techniques of construction and the qualities of good composition to create objects that are both functional and sculpturally interesting.

Dates: 5-7th September 2025

Times: 10:00 – 17:00 (1hr lunch break in between)

5th September: Day 1 begins on the wheel. After a planning session, students will throw a variety of different forms that will later be assembled to create a balanced and functional piece.  Michele will demonstrate the throwing of several different shapes, talk about construction techniques, and discuss the qualities of good composition.  The group will be split into two, with half throwing and the other half experimenting with slip patterns. The groups will then switch over, so all students will have thrown various forms by the end of the first day.

6th September:  We begin the process of deconstructing and reconstructing our wheel-thrown pieces to create more complex and interesting forms.  You’ll challenge yourself creatively and learn new construction means to create dynamic and functional work.

7th September: On the final day, we will focus on refining your pieces, paying special attention to the details that make your work feel complete.  If time allow,s we can also make some colored slips to enhance your design with color and pattern.

This workshop is designed for potters looking to develop their creative voice, explore new techniques of construction, and embrace the joy of experimentation.

Included in the price:

• Course fees (3 days)
• Vegetarian, varied lunch (please inform us of any food allergies +/- 2 days in advance)
• coffee, tea, and water on demand
• enough clay
• use of materials
• Biscuit baking (950 degrees) not included, can be arranged locally if necessary. Please inform us if you wish to fire your items. Delivery of items is not included.

What to bring: You may bring your own tools with you if you prefer, an apron or a change of clothes.

Your teacher Michèle :

Originally from NYC, I now live in Italy. I have a Bachelor of Fine Art degree from FIT, but I also graduated from culinary school. I was a cake decorator for 11 years, combining my food and art background to create sugar sculptures for parties around the world. In London, I had a specialty cookie business, but it was in Krakow, Poland, that I discovered ceramics. I started studying with a potter there, then moved to Venice, Italy where I opened my studio, LAM Ceramica. Over the last 10 years, I have been working exclusively in ceramics and my work can be found in stores in Tokyo, Hong Kong, Warsaw, London, Berlin, Venice, Monza, Glasgow, and Zagreb.