About
Clay is one of humanity’s oldest materials. Long before kilns, glazes, or industrial tools, people shaped earth into functional and symbolic objects with care, intention, and imagination. This course invites participants to step into that long lineage while exploring how clay continues to evolve in contemporary practice.
Designed as an accessible, hands on introduction to ceramics using quick-dry clay, this four-week workshop balances historical reference with playful experimentation. Participants move through four distinct approaches to clay, historic, sculptural, functional, and experimental, emphasizing curiosity, material understanding, and personal interpretation over technical perfection.
The course is led by Mahnaz Moghaddasi, a ceramic artist and conservator with a Master’s in Conservation and Restoration. She works at Centennial Museum, where she focuses on preserving historical objects, including ceramics. Drawing on her professional experience, Mahnaz introduces participants to historical and contemporary ceramic works, providing context and inspiration for each weekly project.
Week 1 – Historic & Cultural Approaches
- Introduction to clay as one of humanity’s oldest materials
- Cultural and historical references (functional and symbolic objects)
- Project: Create a small hand-built object inspired by historical ceramics
(examples: a bowl, tile, vessel, or symbolic form)
Week 2 – Sculptural & Decorative Approaches
- Focus on texture, relief, layering, and surface pattern
- Exploring mark-making using tools and found materials
- Project: Create a sculptural clay piece focused on surface and texture
(examples: relief panel, textured vessel, or abstract form)
Week 3 – Functional Forms
- Exploring function beyond traditional tableware
- Balancing use and artistic expression
- Project: Create a small functional or semi-functional object
(examples: wall hook, hanging piece, small container, or wall-mounted form)
Week 4 – Figurative & Experimental Approaches
- Introduction to figurative and contemporary ceramic practices
- Encouraging experimentation and personal interpretation
- Project: Create an experimental or figurative work
(examples: abstract figure, fragmented form, or hybrid object)
What to Expect
- Short visual presentations each week
- Four guided clay projects (one per session)
- Hands-on demonstrations
- Use of acrylic paints and surface finishing techniques
What You’ll Create & Take Home
- Four finished quick-dry clay works
Skills You’ll Gain
- Hand-building techniques using air-dry clay
- Understanding of historical and contemporary ceramic forms
- Surface design through texture, relief, and layering
- Insight into ceramic conservation and how historical objects are preserved
Who This Course Is For
- Beginners curious about clay and ceramics
- Suitable for all levels
- No prior experience required
What You Need to Bring
All materials are provided. You’re welcome to bring personal tools or reference images, but everything needed to participate will be supplied.
Registration closes at midnight on the Wednesday before the first session begins.
15% discount for North Van Arts Members.
Become a member and unlock a world of benefits! As part of your membership, you’ll enjoy a 15% discount on select Arts Education Adult & Youth classes and workshops.
Here’s how to get started:
- Membership: Become a member of North Van Arts to access exclusive perks.
- Discount Code: Call us at 604-988-6844 to receive your unique discount code.
- Redeem Discount: Remember, you must be a member before receiving the discount. Once you have your code, simply follow these steps to apply the 15% off:
- Browse the available Adult & Youth classes and workshops.
- During the checkout process, you’ll find a field to enter your coupon code. Enter the code and apply it.
- Your 15% discount will be automatically calculated and reflected in your total purchase amount.
Ready to enhance your artistic journey? Join today and take advantage of this incredible offer.
