Clay Torso Workshop 

I’m back from three magical months in Italy, and wow—it was an unforgettable experience! During my time abroad, I had the privilege of studying sculpture with three incredible artists: Raffaello Romanelli, Jana Buettner, and Victor Veber. Their guidance and creativity were truly inspiring, and I couldn't wait to bring that energy home. To share this inspiration with you, I’ve organised two special sculpture workshops. You can join me on either Saturday or Sunday—pick whichever day suits your schedule and sparks your creativity!

Workshop Invitation and Atmosphere

To all my new subscribers, welcome to the family! You’re invited to step away from the hustle and bustle and immerse yourself in a slow, creative space. In this workshop, you’ll sculpt your very own human torso using hand-building techniques that honour form, movement, and expression. Our small, inclusive groups ensure everyone receives the attention and support they need.

We’ll explore the body as a landscape—appreciating its curves, planes, strength, and softness—and discover how clay responds to your touch and intention.

Workshop Details & Techniques

No prior experience is necessary. I’ll guide you through each stage of the process. We’ll cover both the hand-building method and the hollowing-out technique to ensure your sculpture is safe for firing. You’ll have access to a collection of reference images for inspiration, but creativity is key—there’s no single “right” way to create your torso. Your piece can be expressive, abstract, anatomical, or anywhere in between. 

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If you enjoy functionality, you’ll have the option to transform your torso into a vase or incense burner—the choice is entirely yours.

All works are dried slowly to give them the best chance in the kiln, but due to the beautifully unpredictable nature of clay, outcomes can vary. The focus of this workshop is on the process, exploration, and the sheer joy of making.

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Workshop Dates and Session Information

• Session 1: Saturday, 24/01/2026

• Session 2: Sunday, 25/01/2026

• Time: 10:00am – 3:00pm (5 hours)

• Cost: $169 per workshop

• Skill Level: Beginner friendly, all skill levels

• Age Requirement: 16+

• Group Size: Maximum 12 participants for personalised guidance

Each workshop is a stand-alone experience, so you can choose the day that suits you best.

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Location and Workshop Schedule

We meet at 10:00 am at my art space, which is conveniently located between Hammerstruck Jewellers and WA Chinese on Peels Place—detailed directions are available on my website. Once everyone has arrived and settled in, I’ll demonstrate how to build, shape, and hollow your form. By the end of the session, your finished torso sculpture will stand at approximately 15cm high. Please bear in mind sculpture is very time consuming so we are building small to accommodate our time frame. 5 Hours sounds like a lot but it flies by! So please manage your expectations and enjoy the process. 

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A delicious grazing table will be provided, including one complimentary glass of prosecco and sparkling mineral water. If you have specific dietary requirements, please feel free to bring your own lunch.

 

After lunch we will refine the sculpture and ensure it is kiln safe. Explore underglazes and iron oxide, please note this is an optional process as you might like to keep it simple and add cold finishes after the sculpture has been bisque fired.

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What to Bring

• An apron or comfortable clothes suitable for sculpting

• Snacks and beverages if you have specific dietary requirements

• Short nails are recommended for easier sculpting

• Reference pics and your favorite tools (optional)

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What’s Included

• Grazing platter and a glass of prosecco & sparkling mineral water

• Stoneware clay, handbuilding clay

• Sculpting tools

• Underglazes for colouring your creation. (optional) 

• Reference images and sculptures for inspiration

• Full demonstration and guidance

• Slow drying, kiln firing, and clear gloss glazing for those who like to shine

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Firing and Collection

Please allow up to 8 weeks for your piece to be fired. Once your artwork is ready, you will be contacted with collection details. Artworks must be collected within 4 weeks of notification due to limited storage space, at the times specified in your email. If you are unable to collect at those times, alternative arrangements can be made to suit both of us. If you are collecting works for others, you must sign out all items you pick up, including your own.

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Booking Your Seat

To reserve your place, please email hello@niccidaniele.com.au for payment details. Your seat will be held for 24 hours. Once payment is received, your spot is confirmed. Please be aware that refunds are not available; however, if you cannot attend, you may transfer your spot to someone else.