It’s Fun, Give it a Go!
My studio is at my home in Ledbury, it’s a compact space but well
equipped and inviting. I have over thirty years of teaching
experience, to a whole spectrum of ages!
You can come and experience for two hours clay, for an introductory
session, or can commit to longer explorations, developing your skills
over weeks/months/years!
I tend to host one to three people at a time, some folk want to come
with friends, and others want to initially start with one to one
sessions, potentially joining others as time goes by. It should be
noted that I have accommodated eight people at one time in the
studio and garage but this is infrequent!
I work with a variety of stoneware grogged clays which means they
are gritty and very good for handbuilding as they have strength and
versatility, some clays are blond in colour, others are dark. In
addition I have a selection of stoneware glazes, oxides and body
stains, (powered colours), to experiment with allowing for different
surface texture and finishes.
Working with clay is a process, the idea, the design, the building and
the making and then slowly the drying until the work can have the
first firing, (biscuit firing). Next you will be able to apply your surface
glazes and/or oxides to the body of your work and then the
stoneware firing commences with the intended pleasing outcome. I
have a tall top loading electric kiln in my garage.
If you are wondering what you could possibly create in clay then
there are a host of options which can be investigated once you are
here. These can be influenced by what I create or what has inspired
you to seek me out and have a go! You don’t need to feel you have
to have some great artistic ability, a passion to explore is
enough…guidance is what I will endeavour to deliver. If you have
drawings these can be used but being in the here and now and
working through ideas with clay is fine, novices and the experienced
are welcome. You could make sculptures, animals, pots, planters,
candleholders, birdbaths, tiles, etc. the list goes in, any of which can
live happily outdoors as well as within your home.
If you are visiting Ledbury and embark on a workshop with me then
the town offers a selection of places to explore, places to eat and
places to stay.
And to conclude, Ted is the name of my dog, he’s a lurcher, a fluffy
young mutt who loves everyone who comes here, he is very much
part of my life and the studio….just so you know!
clairebillingsleyartandceramics.com 