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Quirky Penguins Ceramics Workshop

  • Yardley Arts, The Old School Hall The Square, Yardley Hastings Northampton, England, NN7 United Kingdom (map)

Join our pre-Christmas ceramic workshop to learn, create, and discover the joy of pottery! Create a pair of Quirky Penguins or make a Quirky Penguin tealight holder, using stoneware clay. 

In this engaging and hands-on pottery class, you will discover the joy of creating your very own unique ceramic piece. No prior experience is required, so don't worry if you're a beginner, our experienced instructor will guide you every step of the way.

During the workshop, you will learn how to use the pinch-pot method to create Quirky Pottery Penguins. You will also learn how to employ various techniques to add texture and detail to your penguin sculpture. You will explore the fascinating process of applying underglazes, which will bring your creation to life with vibrant Christmas colours. Your pottery art will be a beautiful decor statement inside your home or as a gift to a loved one.

Our pottery class provides a fun and supportive environment for you to unleash your creativity. Don't worry about making mistakes; they are all part of the learning journey. Embrace the freedom of expression and enjoy the therapeutic nature of working with clay.

You will have the satisfaction of taking home your very own quirky penguin masterpiece. The transformation from a lump of clay to a beautiful ceramic creation will leave you with a sense of accomplishment and a new hobby to pursue.

After firing, your bird should be collected from Marika’s home studio in Hunsbury near Northampton/Sixfields. Postage can be arranged for an additional charge.

WHAT IS INCLUDED IN THIS WORKSHOP

  • A 3 hour lesson filled with lots of support, help and advice

  • Beautiful, durable cream-coloured stoneware clay will be used

  • Choices of various construction and decorating techniques for you to choose from

  • A range of coloured under glazes for you to paint your art pieces with

  • Texturising materials, tools and stamps available to experiment with

  • A clear coloured glaze will be applied to refine your piece

  • A bisque fire and subsequent glaze fire to a high temperature (at the tutor’s studio)

  • Your art will be beautifully wrapped up and you will burst with pride and excitement upon opening your package

  • All materials and equipment

  • Coffee, tea & biscuits

WHO IS THIS WORKSHOP SUITABLE FOR?

Adults and accompanied children above 8 are welcome to attend. Children must be accompanied and supervised by a fee-paying adult. This workshop is perfect for beginners and more advanced students, those who have an artistic flair and those who believe they do not have any creativity - everyone is welcome. My classes are small and I only teach a maximum of 12 students at a time. My workshops are filled with learning new and exciting techniques, they are also relaxed, welcoming and friendly. My aim is to help you grow your confidence and for you to walk away with a feeling of achievement.

What a restorative and relaxing time with Marika. Such fun to make and lovely people to make it with too! My Quirky Bird will have pride of place on my shelves.

What you need to bring

An apron, or clothes that can get messy!

date & time

Saturday 23 November

10am - 1pm

£67 per person

booking

Please book directly with Marika, who can be contacted by email marikaduplessisart@gmail.com or phone on 07533 487612

You can also book online here

Places limited to 12, so book early to avoid disappointment!

The 5th workshop I’ve done now, absolutely adore Marika and her classes. Fabulous teacher and artist!

ABOUT THE TUTOR

I am Marika, a ceramist and artist based in Northampton who creates colourful quirky birds and unique pieces with stoneware clay. Growing up in South Africa embedded within me a fascination for dried and fresh flowers, birds and toadstools. My pieces are also impressed with native Fine Bush foliage and delicate lace that was handed down from my florist mum.

My work is mysteriously filled with symbolism and aims to bring a message of pure joy and encouragement. 

Having experienced deep sadness and loss has taught me to love life and I have a hunger to bless and inspire others with my joyful work. 

 Each bird has its own quirky characteristics and is intricately constructed and hand painted with multi-layers of oxides and underglazes.

Most hours in my studio are spent adding interesting details, delicate mark-making and textures, to my precious birds. I often contrast glossy glaze with matt applications. Each bird is further embellished with a beaded necklace symbolizing “togetherness with loved ones”. 

I truly hope all of this has been achieved when you view and experience my work.

www.marikaduplessis.co.uk

Earlier Event: 17 November
Leaded Stained Glass Workshop
Later Event: 27 November
Collage Papers and Sketchbooks