Weekend Throwing Workshop at Bukkenburg Pottery Studio, Swellendam
With
David Schlapobersky
Friday 24 July – Sunday 26 July 2026
Workshops at Bukkenburg are designed to be small, personal and immersive. Participants are welcomed into a working pottery where making, firing and daily studio practice continue much as they have for more than fifty years. The emphasis is on learning through observation, demonstration, discussion and hands-on experience.
This initial workshop, July 24 to 26, is likely to benefit real novices as well as those potters with some wheel experience who would like to develop their skills and confidence through close observation, demonstration and guided practice.
More focussed and in-depth workshops to follow – see the outline below
Working with small to medium-sized functional forms, participants will explore:
• Throwing mugs, bowls, jars, casseroles and related forms
• Developing form, proportion and function
• Handles, knobs and other attachments
• Trimming and finishing techniques
• Discussion of clay bodies, glazing and firing
• The relationship between design, making and use
The workshop will combine demonstrations, hands-on making, discussion and individual guidance. Participants will also have the opportunity to examine examples from my own production, explore reference materials, and discuss broader aspects of studio pottery, including form, function, decoration, glazing and firing.
Workshop Program – 24 to 26 July 2026
Friday Afternoon • Arrival and introductions – 14:00 onwards • Studio and gallery tour • Discussion of materials, processes and my approach to studio pottery • Demonstration and throwing session • Evening meal together | Saturday • 09:00 – 12:00 Morning session • 12:00 – 14:00 Lunch break and free time in Swellendam • 14:00 – 17:00 Afternoon session • A full day of demonstrations, making and discussion, with individual guidance throughout. • Evening meal together |
Sunday • 09:00 – 12:00 • Finishing and review • Discussion of next steps • Questions and conversation • Departure lunch together |
Cost: R4 200 per person – Excluding accommodation (Accommodation suggestions below)
The weekend includes:
clay, materials, later firing of selected pieces, refreshments and meals during the workshop.)
Participants: Minimum 2 | Maximum 5
With a maximum of five participants, the workshop is designed to be personal, informal and immersive, allowing ample opportunity for discussion, observation and individual attention.
I will be assisted throughout the weekend by Saskia van Leeuwen, who works closely with me in the studio, and will also coordinate the catering arrangements.
Bookings:
To reserve a place, please contact me:
David Schlapobersky
Email: david@pottery.co.za (please copy and paste the address into a new email message)
Telephone / WhatsApp: +27 (0) 82 342 5453
Places are limited to five participants and bookings will be confirmed upon receipt of payment. Banking details and further information will be supplied on confirmation of booking.
Deposit
50% deposit to secure a place
Balance payable two weeks before the workshop
Cancellation Policy:
Because participant numbers are limited, cancellations made less than 14 days before the workshop may not be refundable unless the place can be filled.
Future Workshops and Residential Studio Experiences – coming soon
- Advanced throwing
- Throwing big pots
- Future Masterclasses
- Half-Day Pottery Experience
- Full-Day Pottery Experience
Some accommodation options nearby:
Participants are welcome to book accommodation that best suits their needs and budget.
The Potter’s Cottage at Bukkenburg
- Accommodation on the property – 30 meters to the studio
- Fully equipped luxury self-catering cottage
- Two double en-suite bedrooms (extra beds available for children)
- R1 900 per night for the cottage.
Cypress Cottage Guesthouse
- A short walk from the studio
- Catered and Self-catering options
- Various room sizes
- Approximately R900 – R1,500 per room per night.
Aan de Eike
- Directly opposite the studio
- Comfortable guesthouse accommodation
- Standard and family rooms available
- From approximately R1,700 per room per night.
Schoone Oordt Country House
- A short walk from the studio
- Luxury accommodation
- Various room options
- From approximately R2,200 per room per night.
There are also many other guesthouses, cottages and B & Bs within easy walking distance of the studio in the historic heart of Swellendam.
Thank you for spending time on our Workshop and Classes pages.