If there’s one thing I miss about my school years, it’s the afternoons I spent at Frank Joubert art school in the the pottery room. I still remember the earthy smell of the clay and wet paint that would penetrate my nostrils as we walked into the studio every Thursday at 3pm. I don’t think I was even very good, but it’s the one class I made sure I never missed and the one extra mural I put my heart and soul into.
I think it’s because art and specifically clay work offers such a sense of freedom. The feeling of creating something with my hands was so satisfying and it allowed me to express myself in a way I never could with words. I loved the feeling of the clay between my hands as I manipulated it on the wheel, feeling the grainy texture being pinched between my fingers. And the anticipation of how it would turn out after being fired in the kiln was such a big part of the exciting process!
When I was told about the amazing “Clay Play” workshop happening this holiday at The Noval Foundation for older kids (between the ages of 11 and 15 years) I felt myself getting a little envious and reminiscing about my years at Art School many moons ago. Oh what I would do to be young again!
The Norval Foundation is here to offer your child inspiration and creative expression this winter with ‘Clay Play’,the three-day Kids Holiday Programme running from 13 to 15 July 2018. This clay workshop marks the first of many exciting offerings in store for the younger guests visiting Norval Foundation, which is located in Steenberg in the Western Cape.
‘Clay Play’ at Norval Foundation will be led by Gary Frier, a skilled local artist who has participated in numerous South African and European residencies and exchanges. As well as working as an artist, he runs art classes and workshops with children in the Western Cape. This unique workshop allows children to learn new skills, socialise with peers and get their hands dirty as they explore various clay modelling techniques through the making of pots, animals, and figurines.
At Norval Foundation, art and culture enthusiasts gain access to a new space dedicated to showcasing art exhibitions with global appeal, in an environment that also fosters an appreciation for nature. Adjacent to Table Mountain National Park, Norval Foundation was designed by dhk Architects and features world-class, purpose-built galleries, a sculpture garden, outdoor amphitheatre, research library, The Skotnes Restaurant & Bar, a shop and a children’s playground.
There is so much that this awesome facility offer! From a world-class museum and exhibitions to concerts to “Family Saturday” style workshops to amazing food at their restaurant Skotnes Restaurant & Bar. It seems to me this certainly something to check out! You can visit their website for more information! *Look out for my review of the restaurant later this month!
To book a spot for your child at the “Clay Play” workshop happening from the 13th-15th July from 10am-11.30am daily, please contact Lindsay on 087654 5900 or go tokids@norvalfoundation.org to book online. The cost is only R450 for the full three days! There are only 15 spots so make sure you get in there soon to avoid disappointment. ♥