Workshop three:
Ceramics with The University of Plymouth
This workshop was about new approaches to ceramics, in particular how to use clay as a tool for narrative and world-building. This is in contrast to ceramics as typical functional objects such as bowls and plates.
It taught them the basics of using clay and coloured slip to create illustrative sculptures with techniques like slab building and hand building. Threaded through the workshop was the myths of Dartmoor and the idea of modern myth-making. From this people created their own modern day mythical creature that can serve the communities of Plymouth for generations to come.
Some of the participants said…
“It makes me feel more attached, connected and protective of the environment as it’s more humanised as a little creature”
“What I most took away from the event: ceramics is very fun I hadn't done much before and I think I'll go back”
Unity of Plymouth
Creature of the sea, part pigeon, part dolphin, part human. Formed of the different elements of Plymouth to symbolise the uniting of all parts of Plymouth together. They also have a fish companion as no change happens alone.
Coral creature
This is a creature of the sea inspired by coral reefs, to watch over and protect the oceans.
Heart of Plymouth
A creature growing roots into Plymouth, with its sword and shield. Inside the creature is the heart of Plymouth, safe and protected with the help if its little friends.
Mushroom goblin
A goblin creature with a mushroom growing from its head to symbolise new life and growth within the city.
Spirits of nature
Two nature spirits that can watch over and protect Plymouth. At one with woodland they can camoflauge and live among the trees.
Sheep
A sheep was created as a creature that encapsulate the British countryside, but that also needs humans to help raise it. This symbolises a meeting place between humans and nature where there is balance between the natural world and human activity.
Orchids
Inspired by orchids this person created a series of small abstract creatures, mimicking the natural forms of these flowers.
Gargoyle
A gargoyle goblin to watch over Plymouth.
A visual summary of the ceramics creative art workshop held at the University of Plymouth.