What you can learn with us:
During your visit you will get a short tour of the studio and introduction of the region’s rich traditions of pottery. While mixing the local clay in your hands, you will be told about where it’s found and how it differs from the clay of the other regions. This is truly an immersive experience that can be enjoyed by the whole family and, especially, by children. You’ll
be able to choose any of the four options to learn and to practice Areni’s artistic traditions:
1. Create pieces of accessories out of already fired clay and thread. The professional staff of Arhestanots will explain the meanings of the designs on the pottery, which may be rock iconography, floral decor, or symbols of eternity, and you can choose your favorite ones for a necklace, bracelet, or other accessories.
2. Decorate clay holders with acrylic paints. All the clay holders in Arhestanots have house-shaped designs, so after decoration you can light up the candles and have lights pass through the little windows.
3, Pottery class - 3,500 dram per person
While feeling the clay and its elasticity you will learn some ways to sculpt pieces of local clay into cups, small plates, or other accessories applying the knowledge of the staff of Arhestanots about local clay and its particularities. Note that the finished clay needs to be fired for three to five hours in order to harden, so you can it in about 2 days after drying and firing.
4, Pottery class - 2000 dram per person. A special technique of spending some peaceful time while dedicating some energy and creativity on your clay artwork. After all you are going undo your piece of art and leave the clay in Arhestanots, so you don’t take any artwork with you. In this way you practice to be ready and willing to leave behind anything you are attached to. During the workshop the staff of Arhestanots will explain and talk more about the philosophy of this process ^_^