September 16 - 23

The Lessons

Level

Intermediate & advanced

The Content

Tamlayo is a South Korean ceramic artist specializing in large vessels and traditional Korean jar forms. His workshops focus on the techniques used to create the famous Korean Moon Jar (Dalhangari) — one of the most iconic shapes in Korean ceramics.

Participants learn how large jars are traditionally thrown in two sections — a top and a bottom — and then joined together to create the final form. This technique allows potters to create vessels much larger than they would normally be able to throw in a single piece.

The workshop also introduces traditional Korean stamp decoration, which can be applied to smaller forms such as cups, bowls and plates.

Because working with large amounts of clay requires strength and technique, Tamlayo adapts the teaching to each participant’s level and ability. Some potters may comfortably work with 8 kg or more of clay, while others may first focus on mastering centering and control.

The Goals

Learning the traditional Korean moon jar technique

Throwing large forms in separate sections and joining them

Working with larger amounts of clay

Developing strength, control and rhythm at the wheel

Learning traditional Korean stamping techniques

Creating additional smaller pieces such as bowls, plates and cups to apply these decorations

What to Expect

Day 1 – Introduction & demonstration
Tamlayo demonstrates the process of making a moon jar and explains the techniques involved. Together you begin creating your first forms. The afternoon focuses on making traditional Korean stamps used for decoration.

Day 2 – Throwing the sections
You throw the top and bottom parts of the moon jar, learning how to control large volumes of clay. Smaller pieces such as bowls, cups or plates are also thrown to use with the stamps.

Day 3 – Joining & refining
The top and bottom sections are joined into the final moon jar form. Additional time is spent trimming and decorating the smaller pieces.

Day 4 – Trimming & decoration
The moon jar is refined, trimmed and decorated. Stamped pieces are finished and prepared.

Because this workshop runs for six days, the additional days allow time for further demonstrations, refinement, individual guidance and exploration of Korean jar forms.

The Teachers

Tamlayo and his wife both teach during this workshop.

Tamlayo won the Silver Medal in the pottery category at the Korea Skills Competition, while his wife won the Bronze Medal. Both specialize in traditional Korean jar techniques and work at a comparable level of skill.

During the workshop they assist each other: when one demonstrates or teaches, the other supports participants individually, ensuring personal guidance throughout the week.

Students who want a lighter moment between throwing sessions can also watch instructional videos about traditional stamp carving techniques and experiment with making stamps or smaller decorative pieces.

To book

Below you can book this retreat and secure your spot. Please indicate which room you'd like to book. You can view the various rooms, their prices, and the cancellation policies under " Prices & Terms ." I hope to see you soon at Ceramicaza in the Dream House.