Ceramic Sound Boxes: Inspired by Seeds and Fruits (Course)

On a stroll through the garden, we discover the astonishing variety of shapes found in plant seeds and fruits – round, winged, spiky, smooth or folded. These fascinating natural forms serve as our starting point for creating small clay rattles. Clay rattles have been used in various cultures since the Bronze Age. Their shapes, materials and uses varied greatly. In a ritual context, for example, they were used to summon a deity or to ward off illness or malevolent forces. In the workshop, participants translate their observations of plants into their own ceramic objects: whether faithfully modelled or freely interpreted – every rattle becomes a unique piece. In doing so, you will learn various basic modelling techniques and experiment with form, structure and surfaces. As the objects need to dry for a few days before firing, they cannot be fired during the course day.