Creative explorations with an artist, amidst a bustling city.
Pricing: USD 800* (accommodation not included)
Duration: 5 days
Location: Pondicherry, India
Recommended time to visit: Dec-Mar*
About
Clay vacation w/Ranjita
You will spend your time with ceramic artist Ranjita Bora in her studio space, Enso Creative. Her space is small and cosy, but equipped with everything you need for a clay vacation. Come with your ideas but be prepared to start on a fresh slate.
Ranjita’s strength lies in her forms, techniques and small details which can make or break a pot. Her teapots are demonstrations of the beauty of pottery when it all comes together in perfect synchrony. Depending on which stage you’re in your pottery journey, you can choose to get her help in various areas.
Ranjita is trained at Golden Bridge Pottery in Pondicherry and you can follow her work on Instagram (@ranjita_bora).
Location
Pondicherry town
This pottery studio is located in the bustling town of Pondicherry in an area called Kulaiyapalayam, which used to be (and still is) a fishing village, but with a lot more development now.
The studio is located on the 2nd floor of a building and does not have handicapped access. Do note that this might be challenging for anyone with mobility issues. You should be able to climb a couple of flights of stairs every day during the residency. There is no elevator/lift access.
You will make arrangements to fly into Chennai and taxi cabs are available for the 2.5-hour journey to Pondicherry. For any help to get to the location, do mention it on the form.
What to Expect
Guided instruction
You will get a chance to absorb, learn and soak in as much as possible during this period. We can discuss the kind of guidance you need before your arrival.
Depending on your interest, Ranjita will also take you around Pondi town and include a visit to Auroville. A longer stay might be possible depending on Ranjita’s other commitments. However, please check or mention it in the form below and note the inclusions and exclusions.
The best season to travel to Pondicherry is between December to March. Though other months are possible, the monsoon season and peak summer are best avoided. The weather can be warm and humid so please be prepared.
Accommodation
Your options
The price for is USD 800 for a 5D residency during which you spend time with Ranjita in her studio.
This residency does not include accommodation and meals. Ranjita does have an option for one student (or a couple) to stay with her during the residency. It is a basic air-conditioned room, with an attached bathroom. Please reach out for details and costs if you want to consider it.
For a bit more comfort, you can also choose to stay in various Airbnbs near her studio. For slightly more comfortable and up-market stays, we can recommend a couple of heritage hotels.
A creative cocoon in the middle of a bustling town!
Learn new techniques, focus on areas of improvement and take time to reflect on your practice. Do take advantage of your time with Ranjita who will be there to guide you. Pondicherry has much to offer a visitor, so make sure you take advantage of the opportunities!
YOUR WORKING environment
The pottery studio is equipped with all the basic tools you’ll need for your vacation. Both wheels and handbuilding areas are available to pursue your work. You can discuss your requirements beforehand with Ranjita, who will be available via email to answer any queries. Short stays do not include a firing.
Workspace
Ranjita’s studio is set up for wheel throwing and handbuilding. All basic tools are available. However, you’re welcome to carry your favourite ones along.
Surroundings
Pondicherry is a bustling town with a lot to do and see. Cycling expeditions, cooking classes, dance, rangoli, temple tours – take your pick! Or spend some time after your vacation exploring the town.
Explore
Auroville is close by and famous for the iconic golden dome – Matri Mandir. It is also home to many ceramic artists.
Inclusions and Exclusions
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INCLUSIONS: The price of the 5D vacation is USD 800. This includes studio use and time with Ranjita. Local sightseeing to Auroville is included. Other excursions like cycling, and cooking classes are on your own. Meals are not included and some BnBs include breakfast. Ranjita will also give you a few leads for lunch and dinner. Firing/glazing: For this short stay, firing is not included. However, for longer stays you can discuss firing your work and shipping (if required) at an additional cost.
Payment details be made directly to the host and the information will be shared when booking.
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EXCLUSIONS: The price does not include airport transfers and any excursions that are not already included in the price. 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: Please note that depending on your plans, I can help with your travel plan, extending it beyond the retreat should you wish to spend more time exploring 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 our refunds/cancellation section on our FAQs page.