You are invited to join Caroline Douglas for an enchanting week of creativity and self-expression as we delve into the wonderful world of clay in the picturesque town of Saint Raphael, France. Whether you are new to clay and want to find your passion for creating art, or are more experienced and want to reignite your enthusiasm, this week-long hands-on workshop will get your creative fires burning brightly.

There will be instruction for making animals, making a bust and making a copy of your hands, how to play with your inner critics, and where to search for inspiration when you are out of ideas.

There will be creativity exercises along with an emphasis on how to make your work tell a personal narrative by using personal symbols and incorporating inspiration from the local surroundings. We will cultivate the joyful place inside that remembers playing in kindergarten where things just flow.

The studio is equipped with dedicated studio spaces, kiln, and the necessary clay, tools and materials. Demonstrations include surface treatment, with oxides and underglazes. Please bring an apron, a sketchbook,pencils and any favorite tools.

Caroline will share her experience of healing herself from a severe head injury in 2000 by working with clay. She will show us how we can all experience healing through creativity. Mostly we will have a lot of fun playing with clay. All are welcome!

The retreat will include a combination of hand building with local clays, guided exercises to foster creativity, and inspirational talks. While the kiln is firing, there are several excursions planned.

Accommodations and facilities: Lauren has a wonderful resource section on her website, Helpful Resources, where participants can find nearby housing or rentals.To nourish our bodies as well as our creative spirits, we will indulge in three delicious lunches provided by Lauren.

You can make a deposit of 300€, full payment is due by Dec 21, 2023. No refunds after Dec.21, 2023.

If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to ask Lauren. Please join us for an unforgettable week of art, clay, and camaraderie in the heart of France and return feeling full of inspiration and a few clay creations!

Instructor testimonials:

Caroline Douglas, with nearly five decades of experience in the world of clay, is a seasoned artist who has taught workshops and participated in residencies around the world. Her story is one of healing through the use of clay from a severe head injury and her passion for clay is contagious. Caroline encourages each participant to discover their own artistic voice that is uniquely personal and delightful.

E. K.

CD is the most inspirational art teacher I have ever met. I followed her instruction of making a head a day for a year and after two weeks my mental perception of how to do it faded away and my hands took over. This was an incredible breakthrough for me. Now making clay art is my meditation.

Brenda B.