Container – Secrets of Ceramics (pottery workshop)

Artist Alicia Matthews leads a hands-on workshop exploring ancient pottery techniques to create Neolithic-inspired tableware

Pottery is a portal into the cultures of ancient societies, from the practical to the decorative: ceramic finds reveal clues to the diets, aesthetics and rituals of the past. Join artist Alicia Matthews for a creative afternoon making our own tableware inspired by the artifacts of the local archaeological record. Ancient pottery styles will be discussed as well as techniques for firing, glazing and harvesting wild clay.

Local diver and archaeologist Chris Murray will also join us for a conversation about his incredible finds of well-preserved neolithic pottery in the lochs of Lewis.

A possible outdoor firing session will be scheduled depending on weather in the following weeks, otherwise we will arrange a kiln firing for the pieces.

This free event is curated by local arts organisation HAAR Projects. Design and delivery is by artists Robbie Thomson and Jon Macleod in collaboration with Urras nan Tursachan, with funding from The National Lottery Heritage Fund. It is part of a series of activities in the “Stories of the Stones” programme this spring.