Learn The Timeless Art Of Pottery At This Creative Residency In Himachal Pradesh

Dharamkot Studio is an idyllic art sanctuary that primarily uses clay and ceramics as a medium of practice. Dharamkot Studio

Published on:

23 Jan 2024, 2:00 pm

3 min read

In the realm of the arts, creation can often be a complex process. Amidst the hustle and bustle of urban existence, our everyday routines can be monotonous and detrimental to creativity. In my opinion, nothing revitalizes the spirit quite like connecting with nature, which serves as a wellspring of artistic inspiration. With this in mind, let's delve into a charming art studio and residency nestled in the quaint Dharamkot Village in Dharmshala, Himachal Pradesh.

Dharamkot Studio is an idyllic art sanctuary that primarily uses clay and ceramics as a medium of practice. The initiative started in 2019 with only one pottery wheel, a few kgs of clay, and a simple yet ambitious dream. From that day as the studio grew bigger, slowly and steadily the dream was realized. The studio has self-taught artists from different backgrounds but they are all connected through art.

Now, the studio space stands at approximately 3000 square feet in total and can accommodate 32 people at a time. It is open from 9 am-7 pm every day. The studio is divided into two places, which are ten minutes' walk apart. Both places are equipped independently yet function as one unit. They are well connected by road (5 min walk from Dharamkot village) and have a beautiful view of the mountains. The studio uses terracotta clay, pottery wheels, slab rollers, low-mid fire glazes, and gas kilns. Artists make their work in the studio and sell on their own or from the studio. The artists and their products are listed on the studio’s website. The studio has around 20-30 resident artists, students, and staff members working and living in the studio spaces throughout the year.

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This year, Dharamkot Studio is offering several 6-day creative retreats throughout March, April, May and June. Whether you are a beginner or fairly acquainted with the craft, these creative residencies offer you the unique experience of learning, practicing, sharing and celebrating ceramic art with fellow art enthusiasts. Few feelings in the world are as tranquil and fulfilling as molding raw clay and immersing yourself in the art of pottery as you create your own art piece. You will learn the rudiments of pottery such as wheel throwing, hand building, surface decoration, firing and glazing. Each batch will comprise 8 to 10 participants depending on the studio‘s space availability. You will be guided by an expert team of facilitators and resident artists.

Picture this — all the creative juices flowing in you as you master this new craft amidst the picturesque Dhauladhar ranges, abundant with pine and cedar trees, the cool mountain breeze kissing your forehead and with no urban din to disrupt your artistic flow. The practice of pottery instills in us patience, empathy, the ability to accept change, and a thirst for exploration and experimentation. Along with the pottery learning sessions, the retreat program will also include nature walks, yoga, meditation sessions and local sightseeing.