Vessels for Flowers


Vessels for Flowers - March 27 - April 9, Tuscany

OVERVIEW

Vessels for flowers are perhaps my favourite objects to make. A number of years ago I immersed myself in flower arranging and worked as a florist for several weddings and events. I spent a summer working on a flower farm and learned what makes a good bloom for arranging, and I worked at a flower shop for many years part time, seeing how these flowers showed up in practice. For the events, I made the vessels that displayed the blooms, and grew a lot of the flowers in my home garden. That experience solidified for me how I want to approach making flower vessels, as a craftsperson and artist. Objects that don’t take away from the florals inside, but show up as a collaborator. The fun thing is that just about any shape can be a container for flowers – endless opportunity for play.

This retreat explores that art of collaboration between clay and botanicals. The pairing of permanent, and ephemeral materials. Over 14 days we will dive deep into considerations of shape, texture, and colour. Specificity in form – how to master lines that allow our eyes to find harmony in the mixing of two media. Flower vessels come alive when they have flowers in them. And, they should stand in strength on their own too. We will culminate our studio practice with time to forage, prepare, and arrange blooms in our creations. I’ll teach you all the floral design tricks up my sleeve. We will talk about how to carry these skills home to your local landscape, and learn what makes a flower arrangement successful.

I will demonstrate both handbuilding and wheel throwing techniques, with a heavy emphasis on how to design a good ‘mouth’ and foot for your vessel. Using pinching and coiling in my own practice, I promote exploration of shape and volume through this building style, allowing you to get out of the round and develop forms that are more sculptural. Whether you’re making vessels for large bouquets, grand centrepieces, or teeny posies to brighten up your night side table, this retreat will foster the skill and curiosity to design vessels for flowers in any fashion.

Firing

After several days of making, we will glaze and fire our pieces in a wood-burning kiln. I'll instruct the group on thoughtful and playful loading considerations for atmospheric firing, how to take advantage of ash and flame effects, and how to efficiently fire with wood. The firing is always a highlight of the retreat - offering time for conversation around the firebox, and developing a more intimate relationship with the firing process.

Wellness

Not just a workshop, this retreat offers a unique blend of creativity, rest, and self reflection. In my (Emma’s) teaching practice, I encourage slow mornings, group discussion, poetry at meal times, and opportunities to stretch our legs in nature. At our host, Il Baciarino, we immerse ourselves in Italian culture, combining ceramics, cuisine, and local tradition. Outside of the studio we eat amazing Italian food, take walks in old Tuscan villages, visit the local Etruscan museum, spend time at the beach and in the forested hills of the Maremma, take cooking classes, play with the cats and feed the on-site donkeys, and much more.

Participants

A small group of just six participants offers the opportunity to deeply connect and create a safe container for each other, with lots of room for one-on-one instruction and expansiveness in the studio.

Whether you're a beginner who is eager to dive into the world of clay, or a seasoned artist looking for deeper mastery and connection to your craft and self, this retreat is designed to provide a holistic experience that nurtures both your creativity and your soul.


Cost

For the 14 days, the cost includes: all meals and drinks, all trips and tastings, all tools and materials, train station pick-up and drop-off. (It does not include shipping your work home.)

  • Without accommodations: 2800 EURO

  • Shared accommodations: La Pesca, located at the top of the property, is a house with a huge deck and four bedrooms that artists share. There are two upper bedrooms with single beds that share a bathroom - 715euro each. The lower two bedrooms share a bathroom and each have a double bed - 910euro each.

  • In a private cottage: Each private cottage is a self sustaining unit with kitchen, bathroom, bedroom, and outdoor seating area. Perfect for those whol ike a little more alone time, and are looking for a personal oasis to restore in. La Rondine, located right next to the studios, boasts a queen bed, huge floor to ceiling windows, and a sweet loft. 1430euro // La Lucciola, located nearest the kilns, has a queen bed, delightful balcony, and easy street access. 1430euro // L’Isidora, located just under La Lucciola, has a queen bed, ivy enclosed porch, and easy access to the pool. 1170euro.

Registration is processed through our hosts at Il Baciarino - please click the button below for additional details, and to register.