Pottery Workshops in Los Angeles
Some things deserve a workshop of their own. We bring together Throw Clay LA instructors and guest ceramic artists for focused explorations of techniques, forms and traditions beyond our regular course schedule.
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Upcoming Workshops
Shisa! Mythical Guardians
Workshop Full - Join the Waitlist
A Two-Day Handbuilding Workshop with
Dane Hiʻipoi Nakama
$125 | October 17 & 18, 2026 | 2-5PM each day.
For centuries, Shisa have stood guard over homes and families in Okinawa. These traditional lion-dog figures are believed to offer protection, with related guardian figures found throughout Asia under many names.
In this two-day workshop, ceramic artist and educator Dane Hiʻipoi Nakama will guide participants through a variety of handbuilding and sculpting techniques to create a guardian figure of their own. Working primarily with red clay, you'll learn to build the form and develop the expressive features and personality that make each Shisa unique.
All levels welcome | Ages 18+
Some handbuilding experience is required.
Clay, use of studio tools and firing are included. Shisa are typically left unglazed, allowing the natural character of the fired clay to become part of the finished piece.
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