Need a holiday with purpose, book a pottery workshop.

Australians typically receive approx. four weeks of paid holiday leave per year. With the cost of living crisis, I usually plan to take one or two weeks away and spend the rest of the time at home. When returning to work, I often feel I could have used that time more effectively. This year, I'm trying a different approach by planning holidays with a purpose. My goals include to learn new skills and techniques, explore new places, and to foster a state of flow.

Pottery workshops

Researching pottery retreats and holidays, I discovered several overseas options, but they were beyond my budget. As a result, I decided to look for workshops closer to home and came across two back-to-back sessions (with a day off in between) at Warrandyte Pottery, which is a 45-minute drive from Melbourne.

As an introvert, I felt a bit nervous when entering the studio, but there was no need to worry – the potters were a friendly group. The studio itself was warm and inviting, well-equipped with all the tools and materials needed. It was also located in a great spot, adding to the overall welcoming atmosphere.

The first workshop was a four-day coil and throw session, followed by a two-day slip casting workshop led by Bernard Kerr. Bernard is a practicing artist from Western Australia, who also teaches ceramics at TAFE in Fremantle. One word that best describes Bernard is 'approachable.' He explains techniques in a clear, step-by-step manner, is willing to answer any questions (and with good cheer).

Coil and throw 

During the first two days of the coil and throw workshop, I learnt how to use a gas blow torch (thankfully without burning anyone’s eyebrows), along with how to use extractors and attach coils to thrown pots. It was a bit of a learning curve, as my initial attempts didn’t result in a successful pot. However, by day three, everything clicked, and I created a 30cm tall vase – the largest I had made so far. By the fourth day, I had crafted a 45cm tall vase, learnt how to mix and use coloured slips for decoration, and found my state of flow.

My vases - coil & throw workshop

Slip-casting 

Slip-casting is perfect for making multiples of the same piece. I learnt how to make both a press mould and a mould from a thrown cup. The process requires getting the right consistency and setting for both the plaster and the slip. Attending this workshop was invaluable, as my previous attempts at home lacked the understanding of how to achieve the correct consistency for the materials. This experience not only taught me the technical side of mould-making but also revealed the creative potential of producing multiple pieces from a single mould.

Holiday with purpose

My pottery holiday was both fulfilling and rewarding. I learnt new skills and techniques that I feel confident in expanding and developing further at home. The workshops allowed me to connect with like-minded individuals, boost my confidence, and tap into a state of flow. This experience has shown me that a purposeful holiday can strike the balance of relaxation, learning, and personal growth. I’m excited to continue planning more holidays that blend adventure with skill-building, enhancing both my pottery practice and overall wellbeing.

Do you like to learn new skills when you are on holidays?