Tactile Hand Building Clay Workshop: Lived Impressions

Hi, I’m Alanna, a ceramic artist, educator, and the founder of Made Askew. My work sits at the intersection of clay, creativity and curiosity. I’ve always been drawn to the quiet magic of materials, the way clay remembers touch, the way pigments shift in the kiln, the way children instinctively explore without fear of getting it wrong. That fascination is what pulled me into ceramics years ago, and it’s what continues to guide my practice today.Before starting Made Askew, I worked as an educator, and that experience completely shaped the way I teach. I’m passionate about process-based learning, giving people of all ages the space to experiment, make discoveries, and follow their own ideas. There’s nothing more rewarding than watching someone realise they can create, that their hands know more than they think, and that the process itself is the real treasure.Over the years, I’ve taught hundreds of children and adults across the Illawarra through workshops, school programs, community events and creative parties. I’ve designed and led programs that blend art, sensory exploration and material play, always with a focus on accessibility, authenticity and joy. My background in education means everything I offer is grounded in developmental knowledge, creative pedagogy and a deep respect for each learner’s unique way of making.Something people are often surprised to learn is how much of ceramics is about embracing the unknown, wild foraged materials, unpredictable firings, the alchemy of earth and heat. I love bringing that sense of wonder into my workshops. Whether you’re five or fifty, there’s always a moment where clay teaches you something new.I hold formal teaching qualifications and years of experience across a range of educational settings, alongside a studio practice in ceramics. Made Askew has grown into a mobile creative studio that partners with beautiful spaces across the Illawarra, making art and clay accessible to families, schools, adults and community groups.If you join one of my workshops, you can expect warmth, encouragement, and a space where process matters more than perfection. I can’t wait to create with you.