Foundations of Handbuilding Clay with Gillian Hodes

Join us for a fun and hands-on introduction to clay! This workshop is perfect for both absolute beginners, as well as those who might have potted (or pottered ;)) in the past and are looking to re-ignite that passion!

You’ll learn (or refresh your knowledge of) the three most important hand building techniques: pinchpots, coil building and slab construction. Under the guidance of your tutor, Gillian Hodes, you’ll create your own bowl, vase or sculpture, which can be left with us to dry, and for two firings: bisque and glaze. 

All works will be glazed for you in our glossy white and will be ready for collection 4-5 weeks after the workshop. Should you wish to paint and glaze your artwork in different colours, you are invited to book in for a glazing class.

This workshop is perfect for those new to clay or anyone looking to explore their creativity in a relaxed, supportive environment. 

Materials List

Please wear closed shoes and bring an apron or clothes that you don’t mind getting dirty. We will provide clay, tools and inspiration. If you have any of your own tools, please feel free to bring them along.

About Gillian Hodes

Gillian was introduced to clay as a young child growing in a small country town, in what is now Zimbabwe. She remembers collecting clay from anthills in the bush, hand building small cattle and baking them over an open fire. After a lengthy stint in the corporate world, in 2015 she graduated with a BFA Sculpture from the National Art School in Sydney, following this up with a Diploma in Ceramics from Northern Beaches (Brookvale) TAFE.

In her own ceramics practice, Gillian specialises in hand building porcelain, although she regularly works with all manner of clay. She has taught hand building to both adults and children for 5+ years, hoping to inspire them to fall in love with clay as she did.