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Discover limitless possibilities of clay through a dynamic and nurturing retreat. Inspired by the lush green surroundings of Aura Pottery, this artistic journey promises unexpected directions and deep understanding of clay’s essence.
Kate Malone will demonstrate the inspired, virtuosic handling of clay inherent to her signature, combined with inspirations drawn from flora and fauna around Aura. She will share her fluency in contemporary ceramic practices, as well as her accumulation of technical wisdom suffused with a unique, inspiration-charged reciprocity between herself as maker and the clay.
The farm is home to great architecture, lawns and a myriad shades of green, making it inspirational for people with diverse interests. Led by an experienced artist, participants explore their artistic interests, focusing on tactile elements, textures, and contrasts. The workshop encourages experimentation, presence, and individual expression in shaping forms.
Open to all levels of experience.
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.
Kate Olivia Malone MBE is one of the UK’s leading ceramic artists with an illustrious career spanning over thirty years. Kate works in three areas with ceramics: Studio Pottery, Public Art and Glaze Research. She has developed an unmistakable and highly regarded style. Kate works from two ceramic studios in Thanet and London. Kate was a judge on BBC2's The Great Pottery Throw Down’s season 1 and 2.
Observations of nature, its fruits and vegetables and nature in the abstract are the overriding influences in Kate’s work. In addition to her exploration of nature, Kate has spent her career pioneering glazing techniques via research and experimentation in the chemistry of glazing.
Arrive at Aura, get acquainted with the farm during an introductory tour, and meet the team.
Introduction to the studio space along with a session with Kate to understand the focus of the creative retreat.
Welcome dinner in the main house, followed by a presentation by Kate, sharing her insights and journey as an artist.
Start the day with some soothing Yoga and meditation followed by breakfast.
Visit the botanical garden near Aura to observe and understand the flora. Sketch different species for sculpture inspiration. Discuss observations, possible ideas for form and detail with Kate.
South Indian style Lunch.
Dive into a creative session at the studio, sketching in clay and on paper. Ideate and start the process of design with Kate’s assistance.
Post studio time, freshen up or take a swim before diving into a special North Indian dinner followed by some fun games.
Get some alone time and relax this morning, followed by breakfast.
Finalize sketches for the sculptures and interpret your ideas into a visual for the final piece. Start working on individual projects.
Venture beyond the farm for a nice lunch, some shopping and sightseeing around the beautiful city of Chandigarh. Witness the architecture of this planned city in a chaotic country.
Visit the local market and take in the vibrant colors.
End the evening with dinner and discussions with Kate on individual projects over dinner.
Begin the day with a tranquil yoga and meditation session, allowing your body and mind to find balance and serenity.
In the studio, work on your individual projects under the supervision and guidance of Kate.
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.
Engage in a productive studio session with lunch and tea breaks. Kate will guide and help you work on your final projects.
In the evening, enjoy a delicious dinner and unwind with a movie night in the home theater.
Start with yoga and meditation, followed by breakfast on the pool deck.
Continue to develop and finesse your piece, look at possible available surface treatments.
Enjoy dinner and a presentation by Andy, your host, on her journey and style as a ceramic artist.
Embark on a refreshing morning trek, immersing yourself in the beauty of nature, followed by a picnic-style breakfast by the lake.
This day is for relaxing, observing and soaking in everything that you learnt.
Wrap up projects in the studio by adding final touches, cleaning up and storing for drying.
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 cozy space with all rooms opening onto a central lounge where residents get together for meals, music and socializing with other residents.
The farm is home to great architecture, lawns and a myriad shades of green, making it inspirational for people with diverse interests.
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.
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 |
