Basket Bowls & Adult workshops ~ Art Creations

Giulia recalls the development of the basket bowl:

“I was asked to run an art activity for the guests at my friend’s wedding party. It was important for me that they had something to take home with them at the end of their day. From my experience, it was clear that people were not only fascinated by the process of basket making but were also very keen to have a go. Starting the base of a basket can be the hardest part and therefore as a ceramic artist, I was inspired to make a ceramic bowl as the base leaving the willow-weaving as the fun activity. The basket bowl was born! I prepared a selection of wood and stoneware-fired pottery bowls, I made holes in the rims and took them along with some finished samples, tools and soaked willow. The uptake was amazing and people ranging from 92 to 6-years-old took part. They were thrilled to take their pieces home. I subsequently applied to the Arts Council for funding to develop my home studio in order to run family basket bowl workshops.”

(Participant work, Lizzie’s beautiful turquoise, willow-weaved bowl)

Giulia wanted to offer a space where adults could work alongside their children. More than ever, the evidence is that people are wanting to learn a new skill and express their creativity. Her studio is a friendly, artistic space where participants can create their own artwork and are able share activities with their family and friends. She aims to encourage participants to be inspired by nature and come to appreciate the endless possibilities of clay.

Contact me to arrange a workshop

Giulia is a member of The Basket Makers Association which promotes the knowledge of basketry, chair seating and allied crafts, through their making, study, collecting, teaching. For further details go to:

The Basketmaker’s Association

Giulia is a member of Basketmakers Southwest (BSW) which brings together craftspeople from south western England who are interested in the practice and history of basketry, rushwork, chairseating, willow sculpture and related crafts. They promote good workmanship through their courses, informal share days and advice on suitable willow varieties and unusual materials. For further details go to:

Basketmakers SouthWest

It is incredible to see what you can produce and to take home our creations is just so rewarding.
Food is amazing! Wide range of things to do!

Jack

Teenager

My son was struggling at school but found real confidence and joy in working with Giulia on his bowl. He really loved choosing the glazes and was thrilled with the final effect. His bowl is now in pride of place in our home. Thank you for the inspiration!

Lisa

Mum

Thanks so much Giulia for all your help
and expertise (and patience!!)!
Really enjoyed my first pottery experiments!

Vanessa

Workshop Participant

Wonderful to spend time at Giulia’s as a family.
The peace and tranquility I get and the time to breathe when crafting with Giulia is lovely.

Lizzie

Parent

Thank you for a fantastic afternoons exploring all the wonderful ideas around pottery. I loved the alchemy of it and you were such a patient teacher! Loved my two little pots too. They are going in my camper-van for nibbles when we go on our next trip.

Gemma

Workshop Participant

We had a very special day with you on Thursday…..
It couldn’t have been better.
Everyone was still talking about it all day yesterday. (And we’re telling our friends!)
We are now very excited to come back and see you again for the final flourish to all our pottery-ware.

Pete

Workshop Participant