We are very excited to offer a new course in 2026, where the profound influence of the Arts and Crafts Movement upon ceramics is explored. This year we are delighted to welcome Tamsin Wimhurst to join us. Tamsin is a historian and specialist in the Arts and Crafts Movement and will be offering slide talks during the course. There will also be outings to a nearby Arts and Crafts church and to the beautiful Arts and Craft Gardens ‘Plas Brondanw’ designed by William Clough Ellis, as well as plenty of time to make your own Art and Craft inspired ceramics.

Arts and Craft potters favoured hand building techniques and so coiling, pinch pots, slab building, model making and tile making will be taught, as well as specialised techniques used by potters in this era such as hand painting of natural motifs (floral patterns, birds and animals), and making ‘sprigs’ to enable you to make, decorate and glaze your own ceramic pieces.

All levels of experience with ceramics are very welcome. We aim to create a relaxed, friendly, creative and supportive environment where time for individual tuition is built in to give each person the confidence to bring their own ideas into their ceramic work. The course capacity is for 6 - 8 people.

The course commences on a Friday evening for an introduction and an evening meal. This gives those that are travelling from a distance time to arrive, and it is an opportunity to meet with us and other group members and will be from 5.30 pm to 8.00 pm. Saturday to Thursday will be 6 full days and will be from 10 am to 4 pm.

There are also additional optional activities for this course: The Arts and Craft Movement embraced the potter’s wheel in its philosophy of valuing individual craft work, and there will be an opportunity to have a go on the potter’s wheel. Guided walks in the local area or drawing in nature are also included.
The course price of £475 (‘early birds’ price of £455 until 30 April) includes all activities materials, firing costs. A home cooked vegetarian lunch daily, teas/coffee/biscuits/cake provided and is also included in the cost. Please inform us of any dietary requirements you may have.

Although accommodation is not included, we can recommend local B&Bs and campsites if required.