The year is speeding on by, but there’s no time like the present. Those resolutions you made at the beginning of the year? We won’t talk about it.
If you’ve been wanting to try your hand at a new skill or hobby, one that can be done with friends or on your own, making ceramics is definitely an option to consider. Pottery is a practice that has been done for millennia and continues to work with the simplest of ingredients: earth, water and fire (don’t forget a bit of willpower).
In a world where we’re constantly logged in, getting notifications and dealing with an onslaught of information, sometimes the best way to unwind is to take it back to basics. It’s incredibly affirming to see your hard work right in front of you, but also to witness your progress from scratch.
But, where do you start?
We’ve rounded up some ceramic studios in and around South Africa, no matter whether you’re a clay professional or looking to learn the foundational basics. Be sure to check out each studio to see what’s included in classes, memberships or workshops.
Clay Atelier
Based in Cape Town, Clay Atelier is a place where all skill levels are welcome. The Gardens studio is in the heart of the Mother City and they offer once-off Clay Taster classes, for beginners who want to delve into the hand building practice. If you’d like to improve your skills after the first introduction, join the 4-week beginner courses. More experienced clay workers can enquire about the membership offering (available to full-time and part-time ceramic enthusiasts) via the site.
Anthony Shapiro Studio
One of the city’s most prominent and best-equipped pottery studios in Cape Town, Anthony Shapiro’s studio offers beginner to advanced ceramic classes. Eager students can join classes from Mondays to Thursdays, and classes on Saturdays. Enquire about availability and bookings via the website
Tarryn and Craig Ceramics
A brother-sister duo with a passion for ceramics, this Johannesburg studio offers pottery workshops for beginners. You can choose between having a private session in the comfort of your own home, with all materials brought to you or you can visit their Parktown North studio for a Saturday class. Book via the official website to check out what classes are available.
Clay Hands
Located in vibrant Woodstock, Cape Town - the Clay Hands team offers weekly foundational classes for beginners. Once you’ve completed the beginner course, you can join the other classes available for people more familiar with the practice.
Established ceramic makers can join evening classes, currently being offered on a Tuesday and Thursday. Book or email to find out more about securing your spot and to see when classes are currently running.
Studio Three
Run by professional potter Anne Schultz in her Kwa-Zulu Natal studio, Studio Three offers classes for adults of all skill levels and disciplines. The classes operate on a monthly basis, with four weekly classes per month. Anne runs morning, afternoon and evening classes from her Kloof space and do note, once-off classes are by arrangement only. Find out more via her official site.
