Retreats
Immersive retreats
The Intentional Cup: An exploration of the most intimate ceramic object, across cultures
November 4-14 2025 at Il Baciarino, Toscana, Italy
Vessels for Flowers: Playful approaches to crafting objects for botanicals, and arranging with wild harvested florals
April 2026 (dates TBD) at Il Baciarino, Toscana, Italy
* all retreats include a woodfiring, Italian cooking classes, seaside and Etruscan town visits, hiking and more!
For more information, please email me at esceramics@gmail.com
Creating spaces to connect as individuals, and as artists, is a deep value of mine. Twice yearly I offer retreats in restorative places - together we explore our art practice, in addition to exploring ourselves and our relationship with the world around us. Each day is divided into studio time and time to relax and connect. During studio time, we delve into the various topics covered in the retreat. This could be atmospheric firing methods, handbuilding techniques, throwing and altering, or form and surface exploration.
During time to connect, we take cooking classes, relax, hike, practice yoga, write, play games, make music, share meals together, sketch, and chill out. Class time is balanced with savouring all that the local culture has to offer, and the opportunity to immerse ourselves in nature.
PREREQUISITES
These retreats are focused on developing our skills and finding new approaches to making. They are perfect for experienced artists looking to deepen the mastery of their craft, and lean into a more mindful and soulful art practice. That said, they are also entirely suited to beginners- start your making practice from a place of intention and craftsmanship. I’ll instruct you on everything you need to know to start your journey in ceramics!
LOGISTICS
An intimate group of no more than 7 participants, I aim to foster a learning environment where all are welcomed, seen, and heard - where there is a safe space for anything and everything that your heart needs, and where each participant gets one on one instruction time. This year’s retreats are held at Il Baciarino, a family run agriturismo in Toscana, Italy.
For more details and to register, email esceramics@gmail.com
Some highlights from the Spring 2025 retreats:
Authentic Argentinian ‘Asado’ dinner - endless grilled meat, delicious salads, wine flowing.
Unloading the woodkiln after a morning spent exploring the local Etruscan castle and old town.
Glazing and loading the soda kiln, under the Tuscan sun.
After unloading the kiln, we gather to critique our work and have the opportunity for feedback/discussion.
Taking a break from firing for a coastal mountain hike and an impromptu swim in the sea.
Picnic lunch at the olive grove - long lunch breaks lend themselves to a slow start to the afternoon. Naps are highly encouraged.