Composite Forms With Shivu Mahesh

In this course, we will focus on the creation of three-dimensional sculptural forms using the potter’s wheel as our primary tool. Rather than producing traditional symmetrical vessels, we will explore the possibilities of throwing multiple components that are then cut, altered, reshaped, and reassembled.

Shivu Mahesh a ceramic and a visual artist from Bangalore will be teaching us how to create 3D scupltural forms using wheel thrown pottery as his primary tool, focusing not only on the final aesthetics but also the structural integrity and balance.

Fees Includes

The course, materials, firings, accommodation shared ( twin sharing ) or private cottage option, wholesome indian meals and snacks, DIY laundry room, access to guest space to lounge, read, relax, workout, farm activities, evening bon fires, tax. No extra charges.

Please choose the accommodation option below while checking out.

Manual Instalment Payment Option

If you'd like to pay in two instalments, 50% to book now and 50% to be paid two months before the course starts, please email me at hello@slowpottery.com and pay via a manual bank transfer/UPI/ International bank transfer or use Wise.

Dates  2nd February to 12th February 2026 (Check in 2nd Feb, Check out 12th Feb)

Slow Pottery Studio Location Velanga Orchard, Andhra Pradesh, India

Ceramic Artist / Facilitators  Shivu Mahesh, Bengaluru, India

Level Intermediate to Advanced 

Duration  10 days

Firing No guarantee of fired objects. Course excludes firings. Facilitator may fire some pots if time allows.

Studio Hours & Materials

All days 10:30 am to 5:00pm (This includes teaching, supervision and practice on your own) 
Optional self practice in the studio 5:00pm to 8pm

All materials will be provided

Note - If you'd like to sign up for two or three consecutive intensives you can stay with us at no extra cost during the break of three days. The Studio will be closed in preparations for the next intensive.

The Intensive

This method encourages experimentation with form and structure, pushing the boundaries of conventional wheel-thrown pottery. Attention will be given not only to the aesthetics of the final piece but also to the build ensuring that each sculpture is gravitationally balanced and structurally sound. Through this approach, students will gain a deeper understanding of both the technical and creative potentials of clay and wheel-thrown ceramics.

Daily Schedule 

Day 1 – Course Introduction & Throwing Basics

We’ll begin with an overview of the course objectives, expectations, and a brief presentation to introduce students to the kinds of sculptural work we’ll be creating. The remainder of the day will be spent with students practicing to throw basic shapes and forms on the wheel. This session will also help me get a sense of where everyone’s at skill-wise so I can adjust the course to fit the group’s needs.

Day 2 – Concept Development.

Students will engage in brainstorming and discussions to begin developing personal concepts for their sculptures. We'll explore sources of inspiration, references, and themes. Sketching with dimensions and idea mapping will help students start to visualize how thrown forms can be altered and assembled into sculptural compositions.

Day 3 – Continued Ideation & Demonstrations.

Some students may need extra time to fully develop a strong concept, so we'll dedicate this day to refining ideas through discussion, sketching, and feedback. Alongside that, I’ll be giving demonstrations on wheel-thrown forms that students have sketched out or any shape that they find difficult, offering tips and guidance to help them overcome technical challenges and improve their skills.

Day 4 – Throwing all the elements.

Students will begin throwing individual forms based on their concepts. Attention will be given to consistency, scale, and how each element can eventually integrate with others. This is a day to produce a variety of shapes with intention, keeping in mind their future transformation.

Day 5 – Continued Throwing & Form Refinement

Throwing continues with a focus on refining shapes, throwing multiples if needed, and experimenting with proportion. Students are encouraged to push their technical limits while staying mindful of how each piece will fit into the larger sculptural vision.

Day 6 – Trimming and beginning assembly and composition.

Students will begin trimming, cutting, altering, and composing their thrown elements into a single sculptural form. Guidance will be provided on how to balance structure and design, and how to reinforce joins and connections. This stage will mark the shift from individual parts to unified pieces.

Day 7 – Ongoing Construction & Structural Balancing

Work continues on composing and assembling the sculptures. Emphasis will be placed on gravitational balance, composition, and securing structural integrity. Students will receive individualized feedback to help resolve design challenges and refine transitions between components.

Day 8 – Detailing & Surface Refinement

With the primary forms assembled, students will begin refining details—smoothing joins, defining contours, and enhancing textures or surfaces. This is also the time to make any final adjustments to ensure the sculpture is cohesive and structurally sound.

Day 9 - Final Touches & Preparation for Drying

Students will focus on finishing touches, resolving small issues, and making sure their pieces are ready for the drying and firing process. Proper drying methods and handling will be discussed to prevent cracking or warping.

Day 10 – Review, Reflection & Cleanup

We’ll conclude the course with a group review of the finished greenware pieces. Each student will present their work, discuss their creative process, and receive final feedback. The day will wrap up with studio cleanup and a discussion on next steps, including firing and potential surface treatments.

Cancellation Policy

- If you cancel before and on the 1st December 2025, we will provide you with a 100% refund.

- If you cancel between the 2nd December to 15th December 2025, we deduct 50% of the total fees as cancellation fees and refund you the remaining paid amount.

- Post 15th December 2025, we will not be providing any refund. 

- In case of International payment refunds, the customer bears the transfer fee. It will get automatically deducted by the payment gateway.

- If your case of medical emergency informed at-least a week in advance, we can consider rescheduling the course (upon providing proof) Refund is not possible. Less than a week, we will not be able to help you.

- Due to any reason, you have to leave during the course, we won't be able to give you a refund or reschedule.

- We follow this policy without any exceptions.

- We take three to four weeks to process the refund. 

Once you book your slot, we will get back to you on email with a welcome mail and invoice within 48 hours.

Hope to see you soon!