Back to Clay - and Back to You

Posted by Maria Sharipo on March 3, 2026

Back to Clay — and Back to You

This year has been one of the most precious and transformative of my life. Our third baby arrived, and with him came that familiar, all-consuming newborn season — tender, intense, beautiful and fleeting.

And while I soaked in every moment, I quietly missed something.

I missed clay.

I missed the rhythm of the wheel.
The grounding weight of porcelain paperclay in my hands.
The quiet focus.
The shared laughter in the studio.
The small, steady magic of making.

Now, I’m so happy to say — we are back.

Thursday Evenings & Friday Mornings Return

Our regular Thursday evening and Friday morning classes are officially running again in our garden studio here in East Ashling.

There is something very special about this space — tucked away in greenery, full of natural light, birdsong drifting through the windows. It’s a place to slow down. To experiment. To reconnect with your hands and your imagination.

Whether you are completely new to clay or returning after a break, you’ll be welcomed into a small, supportive group where exploration is encouraged.

Introducing Our New “Stay Late Policy”

I’m especially excited to introduce something new this term.

After your supervised session ends, you’re welcome to stay in the studio for up to one additional hour to continue working independently.

No rush.
No abrupt packing away mid-flow.
No racing the clock.

This extra time allows you to:

Refine details
Experiment with surface and colour
Finish that piece you’re so close to completing
Or simply enjoy quiet, uninterrupted making

There is something deeply restorative about working in tranquility — just you, your clay, and the soft sounds of the garden.

Flexible Block Booking Discount

We’re also offering a generous discount when you book a block of 5 lessons.

Your block can be used flexibly within 3 months, so you’re not locked into rigid weekly attendance. Life is busy — especially for parents — and I want the studio to feel supportive, not pressured.

It’s a wonderful way to commit to your creative practice while keeping things realistic.

A Personal Note

Returning to teaching after maternity leave feels a little like centering a large piece of clay again — grounding, steadying, and coming back to yourself.

This studio has always been about more than technique. It’s about story, form, experimentation, and giving yourself permission to make something that feels true.

I can’t wait to see familiar faces and welcome new ones into the space.

Come and get your hands back in clay with me.

Warmly,
Maria

Back to Clay - and Back to You