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Recently, I had the incredible opportunity to attend a handbuilding porcelain workshop led by the renowned ceramic artist, Antoinette Badenhorst. As someone who is passionate about ceramics, this workshop was a deep dive into the world of porcelain and the intricate techniques that make it such a unique and delicate medium. From shaping to refining, it was an experience that not only enhanced my skillset but also deepened my appreciation for the artistry involved in handbuilding.
Who is Antoinette Badenhorst?
Before diving into the workshop experience, it’s worth mentioning the remarkable talent and expertise of Antoinette Badenhorst. Based in the United States, Antoinette is celebrated for her ability to push the boundaries of porcelain. Her work is known for its delicate yet powerful forms, blending traditional techniques with innovative approaches. She has been a teacher and mentor to many aspiring ceramicists, and her workshops are known for offering both technical skills and creative inspiration.
The first technique we explored was pinching. Using only our hands, we shaped small amounts of clay into delicate, intricate forms. The tactile connection between the artist and the clay is palpable in this process, and Antoinette guided us through developing a sense of sensitivity to the material. It felt almost like an intimate dance between fingers and clay, a wonderful exercise in mindfulness and patience.
Next, we moved on to slab building, where we learned to roll out slabs of clay and manipulate them into geometric and organic forms. It was a challenging yet rewarding process that pushed me to think critically about the structure of my pieces.
One of the biggest takeaways from the workshop was learning how to handle porcelain with care. Antoinette shared valuable insights into how to avoid common pitfalls, as well as tips for firing porcelain to get the best results. The material’s fragile beauty is both a challenge and a joy to work with, and through her guidance, we learned how to push the limits of porcelain.
One of the most enriching aspects of the workshop was the community of fellow ceramicists who attended. We shared ideas, struggled with techniques together, and celebrated each other’s successes. There was a strong sense of camaraderie, which Antoinette nurtured throughout the entire experience. It reminded me that the ceramic world is vast and full of people who, like me, are passionate about the endless possibilities clay has to offer.
Attending Antoinette Badenhorst’s handbuilding porcelain workshop was an eye-opening experience that deepened my understanding of both the technical and creative aspects of ceramics. The skills I acquired—along with the insights about working with porcelain and the philosophy behind her work—have influenced my practice in profound ways.
I walked away not just with new techniques but with a greater sense of connection to the material, to the creative process, and to the community of artists who share a passion for ceramics. If you ever get the chance to take a workshop with Antoinette Badenhorst or any other seasoned ceramicist, I highly recommend it. The experience was nothing short of transformative, both in terms of my artistic growth and my appreciation for the art of handbuilding porcelain.
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