Throwing Shapes X Simon Kidd
We’re thrilled to invite you to our 2025 Throwing Shapes clay retreats at Simon Kidd’s studio on the breathtaking Cape Clear Island, West Cork. This is a rare, one-of-a-kind opportunity to immerse yourself in the art of clay amidst the stunning landscapes of one of Ireland’s most remote and beautiful islands.
About the Retreat
Over four unforgettable days, you’ll engage in a hands-on experience that combines traditional techniques with the wild beauty of the island. You’ll have the unique chance to experiment with gas, soda, ash and barrel firings and to work with wild clay collected directly from the beaches of Cape Clear. This retreat is designed for all skill levels, so whether you’re a seasoned potter or a complete beginner, you’ll feel right at home.
What to Expect:
Friday:
Travel to Baltimore and take the 2 PM ferry to Cape Clear. Begin the weekend with a Wild Clay Bealtaine-themed hand-building session, paired with some Irish studio vocabulary lessons from Ruairí OPT.
Saturday:
Visit Simon’s studio to glaze your bisque-fired pieces and load the kilns. Collect wild beach clay, combustibles for barrel firings and seashells for wadding. End the day with a magical barrel firing and a memorable dinner at Eirí na Gréine.
Sunday:
Fire up the gas kiln and process your collected clay. Prepare fireplace ash and soda for the kilns. Unload the results of Saturday’s barrel firing, then add ash and soda to the gas kiln. Conclude the day with a cozy pub dinner.
Monday:
Unload the gas kiln and evaluate your fired pieces. Add finishing touches to your hand-built creations (these will be fired on Cape Clear and delivered to the Throwing Shapes studio for collection). Enjoy some free time to explore the island before taking the 4:00 PM ferry back to Baltimore.
What to Bring:
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15 bisque-fired stoneware pots
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Work gloves
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Respirator mask
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Weatherproof clothing
Included:
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3-day workshop with Simon Kidd
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All materials
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Accommodation and 3 meals a day (including pub dinner)
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Return ferry to Cape Clear Island
Not Included:
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Transport to Baltimore (carpooling from Dublin can be arranged)
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Alcoholic beverages
Explore Cape Clear:
In your free time, immerse yourself in the island's rugged beauty with activities like birdwatching, hiking, swimming, or sea kayaking.
Accommodation Details:
Rooms are basic and shared (think summer camp), with some featuring six bunk beds and all bathrooms are communal.
Accessibility:
The weekend involves significant walking but buses will be available. Ground-floor rooms are also an option. If you have concerns about accessibility, please get in touch.
Cost: €550
We can’t wait to share this incredible experience with you!
