Welcome to a luxurious and serene one-week ceramic retreat on a farm in India, where you'll indulge in a sensory experience. This retreat is with The Great Pottery Throw Down 2020 winner Rosa Wiland Holmes.
During this week, we will capture the spirit and details of different birds and relax with yoga in the wonderful setting at Aura, India.
Diving into nature with the colourful birds of north India; trekking to explore the local lake and visiting the wild bird reserve, Chandigarh Bird Park, we will observe and sketch birds as well as discuss our findings that we will be using for this artistic journey. When back in the studio we will explore various techniques in hand building to get the delicate texture of feathers as well as giving the sculpture life with colours.
This is a fantastic opportunity to dive into nature, animals and the beautiful city of Chandigarh with new friends and the wonderful media of clay.
Retreat Fee: GBP 1500 inclusive of all studio materials, glazes and firings, meals, accommodation, activities and a guided visit to Chandigarh for sightseeing and shopping.
Rosa Wiland Holmes is an artist whose creativity is sparked by the vibrant tapestry of her surroundings. Enthralled by the fauna that graces her region, she meticulously observes and brings the animals and birds to life through her exquisite clay creations. Her work embodies a deep connection between art and nature. Above all she seeks to communicate her passion for the medium and the landscape that has inspired her through her pieces.
Arrive at Aura, get acquainted with the farm during an introductory tour, learning about its sustainable practices and meeting the team.
Introduction to the studio space along with a session with Rosa to understand the tone of the creative retreat.
Welcome dinner in the main house, followed by a presentation by Rosa, sharing her insights and journey as an artist.
Start the day with some soothing Yoga and meditation followed by breakfast.
Visit the bird park to observe and understand bird features. Sketch different species for sculpture inspiration. Discuss forms and structures with Rosa.
Lunch in the city.
Dive into a creative session at the studio, start creating your design for your project.
Post studio time, freshen up or take a swim before diving into a special north Indian dinner followed by some fun games.
Embark on a refreshing morning trek, immersing yourself in the beauty of nature, followed by a picnic-style breakfast by the lake.
Studio time: Start developing your visual ideas for the sculpture by sketching on paper and in clay.
End the evening with dinner and discussions with Rosa on individual projects.
Begin the day with a tranquil yoga and meditation session, allowing your body and mind to find balance and serenity.
Studio time: Start working with the clay, trying out different ideas for your sculptures and interpret your ideas into a visual for the final piece.
Head to a nearby village to witness how pottery is made traditionally in India. Pick souvenirs to take back!
Yoga and meditation followed by a fulfilling breakfast.
Studio time: Engage in a productive studio session with lunch and tea breaks. Rosa will guide and help you work on your final projects.
Try throwing on the pottery wheel (Optional)
In the evening, enjoy a delicious dinner and unwind with a movie night in the home theatre.
Start with yoga and meditation, followed by breakfast on the pool deck.
Learn surface decoration by applying slip, underglaze watercolour technique, tracing tools, and scraping. Incorporate the techniques in your projects.
Turning your thrown wheel pieces (Optional)
Enjoy dinner and a presentation by Andy, your host, on her journey and style as a ceramic artist.
Get some alone time and relax this morning, followed by breakfast.
Wrap up projects in the studio by adding final touches, cleaning up and storing for drying.
Venture beyond the farm for a nice lunch, some shopping and sightseeing around the beautiful city of Chandigarh.
Visit the local market and take in the vibrant colours.
Farewell dinner in the main house, share experiences and conclude the retreat.
Farewell breakfast together before proceeding to depart.
Pottery Retreat residents stay at the Potters Villa during their residency. The villa is a small building towards the far end of the property; it faces the orchard and is a two-minute walk from the studio. The villa is a cosy space with all rooms opening onto a central lounge where residents get together for meals, music and socialising with other residents.
Each room is tastefully furnished and equipped with modern amenities, ensuring a restful and relaxing stay. Sink into the plush beds after a long day of pottery, and refresh yourself in the privacy of your ensuite bathroom, complete with all the essentials to make you feel at home.
We believe in the power of food to nourish both body and soul, which is why we take pride in serving delicious vegetarian & non vegetarian meals made with farm grown/locally sourced produce.
Sprawled over 3 acres, Aura offers beautiful outdoor spaces for you to enjoy. Our infinity pool is open to our guests to use and enjoy. A walking path around the entire periphery of the property takes you through our fruit orchard, organic kitchen garden, ponds, potters villa and the meditation circle.
| DAILY SCHEDULE | |
|---|---|
| 7:00 - 8:00 am | Morning activity |
| 9.30 - 10:00 am | Breakfast |
| 10.30 - 1.30 pm | Studio time |
| 1.30 - 3:00 pm | Lunch and rest |
| 3:00 - 6:00 pm | Studio time |
| 6:00 - 7:30 pm | Rest and freshen up |
| 7.30-8:00 pm | Dinner |
| 8:00 - 10:00 pm | Interactive activity |
