Ancient Pottery Class

Crafting history through form and stripe



3.5 hours Class size 1 to 6 guests       $149 (PayPal Pay in 4 available)
The Experience
Spend a full day stepping back in time to discover the raw, soulful techniques of ancient civilizations. In the quiet atmosphere of our gallery, you will move beyond simple pottery to create a ritual perfume vessel—a sculptural form that echoes the bird-like or anthropomorphic designs of antiquity. To guide your hands and spark your imagination, a curated selection of inspiring historical photographs will be available, showcasing the timeless beauty of these ancient forms.
A Note on the Creative Journey: Many of my students have found that returning to these ancient, tool-free methods brings a profound sense of freshness and new perspective to their creative practice, unlocking an intuitive way of working that modern techniques often miss.
The Journey
Morning (10am – 12pm): The Art of the Hand-Build
Using no tools, you will learn to build the complex silhouette of an ancient vessel. You will rely entirely on the intuitive touch of your hands to balance the body, handles, and spout of your creation.
Lunch Break (12pm – 1pm):
Take a moment to recharge and let your clay firm up. There is a lovely café right next door if you’d like to enjoy a delicious lunch and soak in the local atmosphere before our afternoon session.
Afternoon (1pm – 2:30pm): Graphic Painting & Earth Slips
In the afternoon, we focus on the striking visual language of the past. You will learn to apply natural clay slips to create bold, rhythmic patterns. This technique creates a deep, earthy connection between the decoration and the form itself.
The Final Touch
To achieve the authentic 'ancient' feel, these pieces require careful polishing (burnishing). You are warmly invited to return to the studio for a complimentary session to polish your own work once it reaches the right dryness. Otherwise, it’s also okay to skip this step, though the finish will be much more raw and won't have that specific shine.
Details:
  • Intimate Group: Strictly limited to 6 guests for personalised guidance.
  • Collection: Pickup at the gallery or postage available for your convenience.
Join us for a day of creative mindfulness and leave with a piece of history.
What you'll get
  • A Ritual Sculpture: A unique perfume vessel created entirely by hand, without tools.
  • Visual Inspiration: Access to a gallery of historical photos for creative guidance.
  • Ancient Wisdom: Mastery of hand-building and traditional graphic slip painting.
  • Professional Firing: Your work will be kiln-fired and finished to the highest standard.
Knowledge required
Beginner-friendly.
Location

4/37 Coral Street, Maleny QLD

Ancient Pottery Class location
Your teacher

L'Atelier Nefertiti
L'Atelier Nefertiti

female Women-owned

Bio
Professional Ceramicist & Instructor (10 Years Experience)
Based in the heart of Maleny, I am a professional ceramicist with over a decade of experience dedicated to the craft of intentional, slow-made art. My practice is rooted in the belief that pottery is a natural dialogue between the hands and the clay—a grounding way to reconnect with your creativity.
In my studio, I specialize in the art of hand-building and pinching, as well as my signature "drawing with clay" technique using liquid porcelain. I believe that even a beginner’s first piece should be a piece you are truly proud of.
My workshops are designed to be calm, welcoming spaces where we focus on quality and gentle learning, rather than perfection.
My mission is to offer more than just a class; I provide a space to slow down and create. Whether you are learning to shape your first succulent pot or exploring the depth of organic textures, my workshops are designed to help you leave with a piece that reflects both your own expression and a solid foundation of skills.
Join me in my Maleny studio for a peaceful, hands-on experience that connects you to the timeless tradition of working with clay.
2026-06-26 15:00:00
class V48I01Z33L 34c052b7f77f35dccea660a6ce51910d production sunshine-coast Sunshine Coast QLD AU sunshine-coast