Start Date: 16th Nov

End Date: 17th Nov

Time: Sat 12pm - Sun 3pm

A land based workshop creating clay ceremonial vessels and Deer hide medicine tools all  consciously gathered from the land in Bowland at The Gathering Fields. 

Clay and working with the earth are  much more than focusing on a creative outcome or making a product ,   it is a process of connection to our inner world and our relationship to the land and working the way our ancestors harnessed natural materials for agriculture and spiritual connection.

In this workshop Lucy and Helen will guide you through the process of creating a ceremonial vessel of your own to assist a deeper connection to harvesting, processing and firing your vessel the ancient way through pit firing.

We will explore the colour of the clay from the land in Bowland and spend the first part of the creative process tuning into what a ceremonial vessel represents to you.

We gather at 12 pm on Saturday 2nd November to begin with a brief exploration and insights into the different cultures and what vessels looked like and for what purpose they were used for. The session will begin in our cosy log fired barn with a gentle drum journey to seek guidance for the creation of your vessel, materials will be provided, and time allowed for you to sketch ideas and share your thoughts about what you would like to make.

The evening will commence with a practical session making your clay vessel which will be allowed to dry overnight. You can choose to stay in our bunk barn or simply travel in for each day. The evening will end with a warm nourishing vegetarian supper.

Sunday 3rd November we will start the day early and light the earth clay pit and open the ceremonial fire with a selection of herbs used by our ancestors for healing and protection. The clay vessels will fire throughout the day.

Sunday breakfast will be provided, and we will start the day  looking at how to process your own clay you may find from your own land around you building the sense of place an connection. The rest of the day we will be connecting to the Deer and the gentleness of this creatures hide that was gifted to the land, the hide was prepared in the stream on the land at Spring equinox full moon to the following full moon. Our Sunday will be spent creating a deer hide rattle or medicine purse whilst your pot fire on the land.

There will be options to go for a walk during your stay and visit our ancient woodland. All refreshments and food are provided but please do bring your own snacks. We aim to complete at 3 pm.

There is an option to access this workshop on a part funded basis for a group of 8 people the cost to you will be £90 . If you are a charity, CIC or registered community group please do contact info@thegatheringfields.co.uk

Your stay will include a warm barn and mattress with cooking facilities. You are required to bring blanket, sleeping bag and pillow. Slippers or warm socks are essential.