In the shadow of the Dhauladhar ranges.
Location: Himachal Pradesh, India
Recommended time to visit: Oct-May
Recommended duration: 7 days (and more)
Pricing: Email/contact for details
About
Residency/Vacation
You will spend your time in this artist village, surrounded by other studios, artists and a friendly community of like-minded people. The studio, one of the oldest potteries, was established in 1985. While the founders have since retired, it is run by a young enterprising artist who has elevated the studio to new heights. Today, it is a much-in-demand destination for students and experienced potters. The village is serene and gorgeous with views of the Himalayan ranges within sight at almost all times. Once you check in, it will be hard to leave!
Location
Rural HP
This pottery studio is located in a village in the Dharamshala region and is accessible via a flight, train or bus (overnight). You can choose the most convenient option, but flights are the most comfortable way to travel.
On your arrival at Dharamshala airport (or bus/train station), you will be picked up and transferred to your retreat, around an hour’s drive from the airport.
The best season to travel to Himachal Pradesh is between September to May. The summer months are also in very high demand and the pottery has its internship program so get in touch to work out the best dates. Booking ahead is highly recommended.
The Studio
Wheel/handbuilding
A week is highly recommended to get into the flow of things. You will be working under guidance, but you can decide the areas you’d like to focus on at the beginning of the program. Set your own schedule or let us know the areas you’d like more guidance and want to focus on. You’ll also get a chance to interact with the other experts in the studio and interact and learn from them during the stay. Longer stays are welcome; do mention it in the form below.
Accommodation
Your abode
The accommodaton is a well-appointed retreat which is a few minutes away from the pottery studio. However, please note that due to high demand in the area during certain seasons, we might have other recommendations for your stay. There are a couple of good options in the village. The retreat (if available) is extremely comfortable and has all the amenities. You will enjoy gorgeous early morning views, and lush greenery on the property. There’s a yoga room and lots of nooks and corners where you can soak in the sun.
The rooms are designed for comfort and you can opt for all meals to be catered for an additional cost.
This pottery studio is a hub for creative exploration. Bring your curiosity along!
Design your schedule, explore the village, walk around and enjoy the peace and serenity of the area. A few other artists also call this village their home and there will be opportunities to interact with them. Rest assured, you will love the stunning retreat and pottery studio!
YOUR WORKING environment
The pottery studio is equipped with all the basic tools you’ll need for your residency/vacation. Please do bring your favourite tools with you though as you might be more comfortable with them. There’s help at hand whenever you need and once you’ve discussed your expectations from your stay. Depending on when you’re travelling, there will also be other artists working in the studio. It can get hectic, but there’s always space! Please note that you’ll be working on kick-wheels (fun and can be picked up quickly!) and terracotta clay. Firings are done in gas and electric kilns.
Workspace
The studio is set up for wheelwork, using kick-wheels and for handbuilding.
Production
Help is at hand for areas of work you want to focus on, whether it’s handbuilding or the wheel.
Surroundings
Depending on availability and schedules, you can wander around, go for long walks around the village and meet other artists who live and work in the area.
Inclusions and Exclusions
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INCLUSIONS: The price will be based on the length of your stay and will include studio use, accommodation and meals (depending on whether you opt for all meals to be catered). Local sightseeing is quite easily organized (and reasonable) with some notice and will be at your expense. There are also longer excursions around the area and it’s highly possibly to get together with other visiting students for group activities. The retreat has a yoga hall, common areas, laundry facilities and WiFi. However, as mentioned, depending on availability, we might also have a different option (can be decided once dates are finalized). Meals: All meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) are additional and can be bundled into the total cost. Please specify dietary requirements in advance of your arrival. Firing/glazing: For shorter stays of a week, a firing is not included. However, for longer stays you can discuss firing your work and shipping (if required) at an additional cost.
Payment details will be shared when booking.
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EXCLUSIONS: The price does not include airport transfers and any excursions/sightseeing around the area. They can be organized for you at cost, depending on your flight, train and arrival details.
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Personal: Any other expenses like snacks purchased on the road, bottled water, etc. are not included.
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Medical/travel insurance is highly recommended and will be taken care of by the participant. Please check for any requirements in terms of insurance to ensure you’re covered for medical costs when travelling. Medical help and hospitals are accessible, but please note that this is a rural area.
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Travel to India: Depending on your plans, help is also available if you want to travel prior or after the pottery vacation and want to explore any other part of the country. Please leave any requirements via the contact form. Booking ahead is highly recommended to get good deals on flights.
CANCELLATIONS: Please refer to the refunds/cancellation section on the FAQs page.