Sculptural Ceramics: Forms Inspired by Nature
Instructor: Terry O’Day
Dates: August 9 – 14, 2026
Time: Sunday 5:00 pm – Friday 12:00 pm
Skill Level: Beginner Friendly, Intermediate, Advanced
Tuition Only: $650 (includes lunches and welcome dinner) *You can add additional meals at the end of the registration form
Tuition + Lodging: $1,350 single room, $1,075 shared room (includes all meals)
In this course, students will explore ceramic forms that capture the textures, patterns, and forms found in the natural world – from the delicate veins of leaves to the rugged contours of mountains to the gestural expressions of zoological creatures. We will use clay’s malleability to translate natural elements into three-dimensional works that evoke growth, transformation, and ecological harmony. Discussions will include appropriate clay types for ceramic sculpture, structural engineering requirements for asymmetrical forms in clay, and the use of molds and other handbuilding techniques
- Personal toiletries (shampoo, hairdryer, etc. — linens and towels are provided)
- Snacks
- Personal tools
- Notebook and pen/pencil
- Water bottle
- Layers for cool evenings
- Hiking shoes
- Raincoat
Workshop FAQs
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Are the studios and lodging facilities air conditioned?
Yes, there is air conditioning in each room and new air conditioning in our ceramics and multi-purpose studio!
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Is there Wi-Fi at the studios and lodging facilities?
Wi-Fi is available in the retreat center, multi-purpose studio, and ceramics studio.
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Are pets allowed?
We love pets, but unfortunately, we can’t accommodate them in the studios or lodging.
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What is Adamah's cancellation policy?
We understand that plans can change, but when you register, Adamah makes significant investments in preparing for your participation. Cancellations made at least 45 days before the workshop start date will receive a full refund minus a $45 cancellation fee. Cancellations made within 44 days of the start date are nonrefundable. All cancellation requests must be submitted in writing to adamah@bethelhorizons.org. If Adamah must cancel a workshop due to low enrollment, instructor illness, or unforeseen circumstances, you’ll be notified 30 days in advance and offered a full refund or the option to transfer to another workshop (based on availability). Please note that Adamah cannot be responsible for nonrefundable travel or lodging expenses.
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Do you offer scholarships or financial assistance?
We offer work-study options and scholarships for select workshops. Details are available on our website or by contacting us. You need to be accepted to the work-study or scholarship program before registering for a workshop.
Hourly Schedule
Sunday
- 4 PM – 5 PM
- Arrival/Check In
- Participants can arrive anytime between 4 and 5
- 5 PM – 6 PM
- Welcome Dinner
- All participants!
- 6 PM
- Studio Introduction
Monday
- 8 AM – 9 AM
- Breakfast
- 9 AM – Noon
- Studio Instruction
- Noon – 1 PM
- Lunch
- All participants
- 1 PM – 4 PM
- Studio Instruction
- 4 PM – 5 PM
- Break/Open Studio
- 5 PM – 6 PM
- Dinner
- 6 PM
- Open Studio/Free Time
Tuesday
- 8 AM – 9 AM
- Breakfast
- 9 AM – Noon
- Studio Instruction
- Noon – 1 PM
- Lunch
- All participants
- 1 PM – 4 PM
- Studio Instruction
- 4 PM – 5 PM
- Break/Open Studio
- 5 PM – 6 PM
- Dinner
- 6 PM
- Open Studio/Free Time
Wednesday
- 8 AM – 9 AM
- Breakfast
- 9 AM – Noon
- Studio Instruction
- Noon – 1 PM
- Lunch
- All participants
- 1 PM – 4 PM
- Studio Instruction
- 4 PM – 5 PM
- Break/Open Studio
- 5 PM – 6 PM
- NO Dinner – Go out! 🙂
- 6 PM
- Open Studio/Free Time
Thursday
- 8 AM – 9 AM
- Breakfast
- 9 AM – Noon
- Studio Instruction
- Noon – 1 PM
- Lunch
- All participants
- 1 PM – 4 PM
- Studio Instruction
- 4 PM – 5 PM
- Break/Open Studio
- 5 PM – 6 PM
- Dinner
- 6 PM
- Open Studio/Free Time
Friday
- 8 AM – 9 AM
- Breakfast
- 9 AM – 11 AM
- Studio Instruction
- 11 AM – Noon
- Clean up/Group Photo & Workshop Review