A One-off, Limited Edition Class
Places are strictly limited for this brand new workshop and it won't be repeated in quite the same way again.
Come and hand-build your very own quirky Highland cow, entirely from stoneware clay. This is a truly special, one-off session where you'll shape a magnificent little creature with curvy horns, an adorable wagging tail, stumpy legs, and the softest, most endearing eyelashes you've ever seen on a cow. Rustic, characterful, and bursting with personality, these cows are a true symbol of the Scottish and English countryside.
Once your cow's basic form is built, the real fun begins — you'll decorate with underglazes and let your imagination run wild. Add flowers, a little quirky bird perched on the head, a jaunty hat, a crown of blooms, or hearts scattered across the coat. Your cow's fur will be layered in warm tones of dark and light brown, giving each one its own soft, calming character. No two will ever be the same.
This class is designed with complete beginners in mind — no experience necessary. I'll guide you through every step, from building the body to adding the finishing decorative touches, so you'll never feel lost. More experienced hand-builders are just as welcome and will have plenty of scope to push their creativity further.
Once the workshop is complete, your cow will need time to dry slowly before being bisque fired and then glaze fired — so you'll be able to collect your finished piece around three weeks after the class. It's worth the wait — trust me, these cows are magnificent.
Limited places. First class of its kind. Book now to make sure you don't miss out on this one.
Our pottery class provides a fun and supportive environment for you to unleash your creativity. Don't worry about making mistakes; they are all part of the learning journey. Embrace the freedom of expression and enjoy the therapeutic nature of working with clay. The transformation from a lump of clay to a beautiful ceramic creation will leave you with a sense of accomplishment and a new hobby to pursue.
After firing, your Highland Cow should be collected from Marika’s home studio in Hunsbury near Northampton/Sixfields. Postage can be arranged for an additional charge.
WHAT IS INCLUDED IN THIS WORKSHOP
A 3 hour lesson filled with lots of support, help and advice
Beautiful, durable cream-coloured stoneware clay will be used
Choices of various construction and decorating techniques for you to choose from
A range of coloured under glazes for you to paint your art pieces with
Texturising materials, tools and stamps available to experiment with
A clear coloured glaze will be applied to refine your piece
A bisque fire and subsequent glaze fire to a high temperature (at the tutor’s studio)
Your art will be beautifully wrapped up and you will burst with pride and excitement upon opening your package
All materials and equipment
Coffee, tea & biscuits
WHO IS THIS WORKSHOP SUITABLE FOR?
Adults and accompanied children above 8 are welcome to attend. Children must be accompanied and supervised by a fee-paying adult. This workshop is perfect for beginners and more advanced students, those who have an artistic flair and those who believe they do not have any creativity - everyone is welcome. My classes are small and I only teach a maximum of 12 students at a time. My workshops are filled with learning new and exciting techniques, they are also relaxed, welcoming and friendly. My aim is to help you grow your confidence and for you to walk away with a feeling of achievement.
“What a restorative and relaxing time with Marika. Such fun to make and lovely people to make it with too! My Quirky Bird will have pride of place on my shelves.”
What you need to bring
An apron, or clothes that can get messy!
date & time
Thursday 3 December
11am – 2pm
£67 per person
booking
Please book directly with Marika, who can be contacted by email marikaduplessisart@gmail.com or phone on 07533 487612
You can also book online here.
Places limited to 12, so book early to avoid disappointment!
“The 5th workshop I’ve done now, absolutely adore Marika and her classes. Fabulous teacher and artist!”
ABOUT THE TUTOR
I am Marika, a ceramist and artist based in Northampton who creates colourful quirky birds and unique pieces with stoneware clay. Growing up in South Africa embedded within me a fascination for dried and fresh flowers, birds and toadstools. My pieces are also impressed with native Fine Bush foliage and delicate lace that was handed down from my florist mum.
My work is mysteriously filled with symbolism and aims to bring a message of pure joy and encouragement.
Having experienced deep sadness and loss has taught me to love life and I have a hunger to bless and inspire others with my joyful work.
Each bird has its own quirky characteristics and is intricately constructed and hand painted with multi-layers of oxides and underglazes.
Most hours in my studio are spent adding interesting details, delicate mark-making and textures, to my precious birds. I often contrast glossy glaze with matt applications. Each bird is further embellished with a beaded necklace symbolizing “togetherness with loved ones”.
I truly hope all of this has been achieved when you view and experience my work.