Seed Pod Garden Ornament Pottery Workshop

Name: Seed Pod Garden Ornament Pottery Workshop
Start: 2026-02-14T10:00:00+00:00
End: 2026-02-14T16:00:00+00:00
Location: St Anne's Arts & Community Centre

Schedule

Sat Feb 14 2026 at 10:00 am to 04:00 pm

UTC+00:00

Location

St Anne's Arts & Community Centre | Barnstaple, EN

Tutor: Helen McCormick
Join Helen for a fun and creative session where you can learn to make 3 beautiful garden ornaments inspired by nature's seed pods.
This in-person event will guide you through the pottery-making process, from shaping the clay to adding intricate details.
Whether you're a beginner or have experience with pottery, this workshop is perfect for anyone looking to unleash their artistic side.
Don't miss this opportunity to create unique pieces to adorn your garden or give as thoughtful gifts.
Secure your spot now!
All materials and equipment will be provided.
The only thing you need to bring is an apron or wear old clothes if possible.
After the workshop, Helen will carefully take your sculpture home and fire them in her kiln.
We will email you when then are ready for collection.
All ages welcome (14 yrs & under must be accompanied by an adult).
Tea & Coffee available throughout the day for a small donation.

£55.00 +£20 for materials (includes 3 metal rods of varying heights) and firings and glazing, payable to the tutor on the day.
Book online or call The Box Office: 01805 624624
If a workshop you'd like to do is fully booked ring Box Office (01805 624624) to be added to the waiting list, you might be lucky! This also helps us ascertain the demand for particular workshops when programming.
PARKING
The closest long term car parks (and the cheapest) can be found at:
Fair View, Barnstaple EX31 1JR
Pilton Causeway, Barnstaple EX32 7AA
Seven Brethren Bank (beyond the Leisure Centre)
About Helen

I am a Welsh ceramicist and art teacher living in Cullompton, Devon. My hand-built ceramic vessels are strongly influenced by the coast and my time living, teaching and travelling in South East Asia. My forms are inspired by my first-hand experience of bulbous and curvaceous shapes found in many of the countries I travelled through.
Each vessel is an exploration into the plasticity of the clay and the relationship between the maker and material. Beginning with a simple pinch pot, I build each piece over a few days so that there is time to reflect whilst the clay is drying and before adding the next coil. I then turn back the form by hand with a metal kidney, carving excess clay away, and using a mirror to help me achieve symmetry. I use stoneware clay, which I high bisque fire before applying very thin glaze. The surface is achieved by layering slip and barium glaze via pouring, dipping, spraying or brushing onto the vessel, layering the glaze. Each piece is a flux of blues and greens, reflecting the richness of the ocean.

I studied a BA in 3D Design at Exeter School of Art in 1996-1999 and a MA in Ceramics in Cardiff in 2003-2004. Having a desire to share my knowledge I completed a PGCE in Secondary Art and Design 2005-2006. I have taught in schools in Wales, England, Ghana, Thailand and Hungary for 16 years. I am now taking a leap of faith and focusing on sharing my skills via local community workshops and developing my studio practice; in my new life as an independent educator and studio potter.
I am a member of the Westcountry Potters Association and The Cullompton Arts House.