Design Camp for ages 11 to 14: Create in Clay
About the event
This workshop will introduce young people to the tactile material of clay and its many properties through a day of hands-on exploration, creating pinch pots, exploring wheel throwing and turning, and making their own crafting tools.
What to expect This workshop introduces participants to the art of sculpting and carving with clay, inspired by our latest display PLATFORM: Simone Brewster. Participants will enjoy an immersive pottery experience, learning techniques from mindful mark-making to wheel-throwing. Using tools made from all kinds of materials, young people will discover how far this versatile medium can be pushed. The day begins with a drawing activity, giving participants space to develop ideas before they start working with clay. They'll then explore the material's different states, from liquid to leather-hard, building an understanding of how it behaves. From there, they'll prepare clay to create pinch pots and have a go on a potter's wheel, developing hands-on skills and confidence. Throughout the workshop, children will discover the powerful, creative experience of making without fear of failure. Learning outcomes and takeaways: Planning process and making a sketch book Mindful drawing experience Collaborative pinch pot challenge (making individual pots to then make up into a whole collaborative piece) Preparation of clay for wheel throwing and slip Throwing on the wheel Turning on the wheel Sculpting /carving leather-hard clay using a variety of tools Inventing tools using recycled materials Good studio practice (Tidy, Rest, Reflect) Please note: This workshop is suitable for young people aged 11 to 14. All participants must be dropped off and picked up by an adult. You can find additional information in the sections below Capacity is limited, we recommend booking early to avoid disappointment. All equipment, materials and light refreshments will be provided, but participants will need to bring a packed lunch. This event is wheelchair accessible, with step-free access throughout the museum.





