Shaping earthy forms and gilded details in coffee clay

This workshop offers a quiet, tactile way to explore ideas of change and renewal. It can suit a wide range of groups, including those in educational, wellbeing, or community settings. The session works well in calm indoor spaces where participants can take time to work slowly with their hands. While the approach is structured, it leaves space for individual interpretation, making it suitable for mixed-ability groups.

I shape renewal out of decay.

Cycles Beneath the Surface

The theme of transformation is gently introduced through a guided meditation, inviting participants to imagine the hidden networks of fungi and the unseen cycles of decay and renewal that support life. Afterwards, participants spend time with simple reflective journalling prompts to connect this idea to their own inner processes. This stage allows space for quiet thought and optional sharing, setting a contemplative tone before the making begins.

Shaping from the Earth

Participants mix and knead a rich dark coffee clay made from used coffee grounds, flour, salt, and water. They shape small mushrooms and press natural leaves into slabs to create textured imprints. Once dry these forms are brushed with white or metallic paint to highlight raised areas or finer details added like dots and gills. All materials are provided, and no prior experience is needed. Step-by-step guidance supports the process, while encouraging each person to explore their own sense of balance, rhythm, and detail in their work.

holding Quiet Change

By the end of the workshop, each participant will have a small collection of hand-formed mushrooms on sticks and a lightweight mobile made from leaf-printed pieces. These objects are personal in both shape and surface, echoing the idea of life emerging from decay. They serve as simple reminders of cycles of change, how quiet processes can give rise to growth in their own time.

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