Rishtan Ceramics Center

The workshop area of the center is divided into two molding rooms—one housing an electric potter’s wheel and the other a classic, foot-operated wheel—alongside spaces designated for drying and a kiln. There is also a spacious room reserved for the art of painting ceramics. The workshop welcomes visitors daily and can host up to 20 participants per session.

In the molding workshop, guests are invited to take a seat at the potter’s wheel to learn the delicate art of shaping clay. The traditional wheel is often favored for its authentic feel, echoing a practice that has been passed down through generations. Under expert guidance, participants learn to keep the clay malleable with water, measure the thickness of their creations, and utilize various tools to aid in the process. Within just thirty minutes, a simple lump of clay is transformed into a beautiful plate or jug, which is then left to dry for several days.

The painting workshop is a realm where artistry meets tradition. Here, participants don aprons and gather around a table laden with paints that, though initially gray, will burst into a spectrum of colors upon firing. The instructor pre-draws guidelines on the ceramics, aiding in the ornamentation process. As participants wield their brushes, they learn not only to replicate intricate patterns but also to craft their own designs, requiring a steady hand and meticulous attention to detail. While the basics of painting can be learned swiftly, true mastery of this art form is the result of years of dedication.

The masterclasses at the Rishtan Ceramics Center are gateways to discovering a new passion, honing fine motor skills, and embracing a joyful, creative outlet. Post-session, guests are invited to unwind beneath the cool canopy of trees, sipping tea from exquisite cups, while listening to the artisans impart wisdom about the philosophy of pottery, the symbolism within the patterns, and the distinctiveness of the Rishtan style.