The Manx Loaghtan is a rare UK breed which you can meet at the Farm. It is instantly recognisable by its rich brown fleece and distinctive multiple horns. In this workshop, you’ll explore the character and form of this remarkable animal, translating its unique features into clay.
You’ll be guided step by step through hand-building techniques to shape your own ceramic sheep. Starting with basic forms, you’ll learn how to build structure, add texture to suggest wool, and sculpt expressive details such as the face and characteristic horns. You’ll also have the opportunity to personalise your piece, capturing the personality and charm of this historic breed.
Once your sculpture is complete, you’ll refine the surface with finishing touches before it is fired. After firing, which takes approximately four to eight weeks, your finished Manx Loaghtan sheep will be carefully packaged and posted to you—ready to display as a unique celebration of this much-loved heritage breed.
This morning session allows time to explore our unique site ancient building reconstructions and come face to face with our Manx Loaghtan sheep.
About the workshop
Morning session 10.00am - 12.00pm
Create your own piece of artwork with guidance from an experienced ceramicist
Your own Ancient Sheep Model will be posted directly to participants
Set in the unique surroundings of Butser Ancient Farm’s historic buildings
Jonathan Dioriotrained as a Fine Arts Ceramicist, specialising in sculptural ceramics and hand building techniques. Diorio Ceramics Clay workshops aim to inspire people by giving them an experience of sculptural ceramics. Jonny Diorio has a vast amount of experience using ceramics educationally and therapeutically across a wide variety of client groups and age ranges, and is excited to bring his skills to Butser this Half-Term.
Included in your ticket
Entrance to the farm, a morning’s tuition and expertise, and use of all the tools and materials necessary to create an attractive ceramic sheep, which will be fired and posted directly to participants.
WORKSHOP INFO
Please wear sensible clothing and footwear for this workshop. Lunch is not included, although sandwiches (subject to availability), hot and cold drinks, and snacks are sold in our gift shop. You’re also welcome to bring a picnic if you prefer!
This workshop is perfect for adults, but suitable for ages 8+. Participants under 18 must be accompanied by an adult.