Ancient Pottery Techniques Made Modern

Instructor: Matin Malikzada 

Dates: Saturdays, July 27 and August 10, 2024 

Time: 9:00 am - 12:00 pm 

Ages: 18+

Members: $112.50

Non-Members: $125

Description: 

Master the art of centering and throwing large-scale pieces. Designed for advanced wheel throwers, participants will work with internationally recognized, 7th-generation Afghan master potter, Matin Malikzada, to create one large ceramic piece over the course of two sessions. Matin will lead demonstrations on centuries-old techniques that live on through his work and guide students in this two-part skill-building workshop. You will be encouraged to find different ways to modernize these ancient techniques and put your own spin on things. In the first session, participants will learn specific hand techniques and begin throwing their pieces on the wheel. On day two, Matin will provide in-depth demonstrations on trimming and how to etch the surface of the clay. Gain a new understanding of this art form and push the boundaries of these ancient techniques.

Please note that this workshop does not include a firing. Participants will be working with wet and dried clay only. 

For participants who wish to have Five Points Arts bisque fire their piece after the workshop, the firing fee is $0.05 / cubic inch. 

Materials:

Provided by Five Points Arts:

• One 25-pound bag of clay will be provided, which is included in the cost of the workshop. Additional bags of clay may be purchased for $35.10 (including tax) each.

Provided by Participants:

• A Clay Starter Tool Kit: a basic set of tools for working with clay, available at most arts supplies stores and online. 
  • Clay Tool Kit from Jerry's Artarama
  • Clay Tool Kit from Amazon
  • Clay Tool Kit from Michaels
• Notebook/sketchbook, an old towel, apron
• 5-quart bucket 

Instructor Bio:

A seventh-generation Afghan master of traditional pottery, Matin Malikzada is internationally recognized for his technical skill and elegant designs. A native of Istalif, Afghanistan, once a vibrant center of ceramic art and commerce, Matin was forced to flee Afghanistan following the Taliban takeover. Along with his family, he is now resettled in Northwest Connecticut where he continues his journey as an artist. In Kabul, Matin served as head of the Ceramics department at the Turquoise Mountain Institute, an NGO founded by Charles, Prince of Wales, where in his youth he studied and honed the skills inherited from his father. Upon graduating, he was hired as a Master of Ceramics, and ultimately rose to lead the department. Matin revitalized a nearly lost art of symmetrical design and turquoise glaze derived from natural pigments unique to Istalifi pottery and has trained over one hundred artisans in these ancient techniques. In addition to holding a bachelor’s degree in Law from Afghanistan, he has earned Certificates in Design and Crafts from the City and Guilds Institute of London, been a visiting artist at the Institute of Ceramic Studies at Shigaraki, Japan, and authored books on Istalifi Pottery.

Link to Matin's Website

* All workshops are held at the Five Points Art Center, 855 University Drive

Workshop Policies: Please review the terms of our workshop policies here