Round, to Not
with Emma Smith
March 7 - 17, 2025, (10 days)
Introduction
This retreat is an investigation of form and surface, from round to not. We will investigate what it means to make objects for the hand; the balance between aesthetics and functionality, and the specificity of design needed for objects intended for personal pleasure.
Location and Dates
The retreat is held at Il Baciarino in Vetulonia, Tuscany, Italy from March 7 to 17, 2025
Teaching method
Wheel throwing techniques, handbuilding demonstrations, and drawing exercises will all be key components to this 10 day workshop. Together we will find curiosity where objects leave the pottery wheel and break out of the round - exploring complex forms such as teapots, candlesticks and jars. We will use throwing skills and coil and pinch methods to start forms that will later be assembled, altered, and added to. Students will learn to make composite forms from multiple pieces, developing the skills to deepen their current making practice. These techniques can be used on small or large scale, sculpturally, or simply to take standard plates, bowls and cups to a new level.
Firing
At the end of the course, your work will be bisqued so it can be glazed and finished at home, or, stay for the Atmospheric Firing Retreat to finish your work on site.
PREREQUISITES
This course is suitable for beginners, but intermediate throwing techniques are an asset.
Food And Drink
We will indulge ourselves in the best that Tuscany has to offer. Three healthy meals a day, made with local ingredients, Italian style. Dinners will begin with an aperitivo, there will be wine at each lunch and dinner, and a ‘digestive’ will round things out (there are always non-alcoholic options, and all of it’s included in the price)
Other Activities
But not only will we eat, we’ll also learn how some of it’s done! Try your hand at our ricotta gnocchi or gnudi. Learn the tricks of a terrific tiramisu. And make your own wood-fired pizza from scratch. You’ll be able to go home and impress your friends with more than your ceramics! A visit to the village’s Etruscan museum will be a source of inspiration for our making, as will be trips off the property to the beach, the old town centre, the olive grove, and other cultural experiences.
Cost
For the 10 days, the cost includes: all meals and drinks, all trips and tastings, all tools and materials, train station pick-up and drop-off. (It does not include shipping your work home.)
Without accommodations: €1,975
In a shared cottage, single bed: €2,425
In a shared cottage, queen bed: €2,685
In a shared cottage, private bedroom, single bed: €2,785
In a cottage to yourself, queen bed: €2,855
Partners, Plus-ones, and Families are welcome if you choose a cottage to yourself. Cost for their food, trips, etc: €1,200
Before deciding, I highly recommend having a look at the location where the retreats are held either via their instagram or website. It’s truly spectacular.
If you’d like to stay for the Atmospheric Firing retreat as well, the cost for all 21 days is
Without accommodations: €3,500
In a shared cottage, single bed: €4,500
In a shared cottage, queen bed: €5,300
In a shared cottage, private bedroom, single bed: €5,700
In a cottage to yourself, queen bed: €5,900