Traditional Nigerian Pottery (tuition-free)

Adult Tuition-Free Class | This program is completed

All levels welcome, recommended for beginners.
9/30/2024-12/2/2024
6:30 PM-9:30 PM EDT on Mon
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$20.00
$50.00

Traditional Nigerian Pottery (tuition-free)

Adult Tuition-Free Class | This program is completed

Come make pots with us! You will learn and explore a technique that has been practiced in the country of Nigeria for centuries. In contrast with Western notions of ceramics, students will learn about African art and aesthetic and become familiar with the important role of the vessel in Nigerian culture and around the world. Students should be advised that you do not need any prior art or ceramic background for this technique. Although this is a traditional practice and we want to keep it in its most authentic form - it is a very physical technique and can involve a lot of standing, leaning, bending and constant movement. Stretching before class is recommended. Please know your physical boundaries before entering the class.

What you will learn:
1. Get an introduction to West African art and aesthetic.
2. Construct a vessel to take home at the end of class
3. Become proficient in the Traditional Nigerian Pottery technique
4. Learn a new non-Western ceramic technique
5. Learn the history, importance, beauty, and function of vessels in African and other cultures of the world

Please note: Class will not meet on Monday, October 14 in observance of Indigenous People’s Day or on Monday, November 25 when Fleisher will be closed for the Thanksgiving holiday. 


• Participants must have a valid Fleisher membership.

  • Start the term with these supplies:

    • Clay is included in your registration - no outside clay is permitted
    • Comfortable shoes
    • Clothes that can get messy or apron
    • Bottle of water
    • Hand lotion
    • Ceramic carving tool kit
    • Coconut ribs

    The carving tools and coconut ribs can be purchased at any number of locations. The links to the Ceramic Shop website are are intended only as one option and for reference:
    • Carving Tools
    • Coconut Ribs

Robin Williams-Turnage

Robin Williams-Turnage is a Philadelphia-based artist and educator whose multifaceted practice is rooted in a consistent African aesthetic. Currently focusing her personal work on ceramics, she creates tableware and other vessels that reflect this influence. Her dedication to her craft is evident in her roles as an Associate Artist at The Clay Studio and at Allens Lane Art Center. She has taught here at Fleisher for many years  instructing courses on Traditional Nigerian and Ghanaian Pottery at various institutions in Philadelphia. In recent years, Williams-Turnage has actively exhibited her work at The Clay Studio and Fleisher Art Memorial, The Colored Girls Museum, Allens Lane Art Center and with The Drummond Art Legacy.