In conjunction with her solo exhibition at the Clay Center, join artist Lora Rust for a 2-day hands-on workshop devoted to her one-of-a-kind surface decoration techniques. Register now with a $125 deposit!

In this hands-on workshop, you'll learn and practice Lora’s signature technique of “pushing the clay,” either on provided sample tiles or on soft leather-hard pieces that you bring along. You'll also watch Lora throw, alter, and decorate a variety of porcelain forms using her distinct techniques and personally designed tools.

Lora will explore composition, pattern, and design while discussing the relationship of surface texture to the form, and will finish out the workshop with a demonstration of cone 6 glazing and finishing techniques perfect for maximizing surface texture.

Students will have access to sample clay slabs to use when learning and practicing Lora's techniques, but we encourage you to bring 3-4 of your own soft leather-hard forms to work on as well. Lora's techniques work best with smooth clay bodies without any grog.

Register now with a $125 deposit, and pay the remaining balance by February 14th.

Course Level

This course is appropriate for students at the following levels:

Beginner+ (some prior clay experience)
Intermediate
Advanced

Included in your tuition

Midrange stoneware clay tile
Use of studio tools
Complimentary coffee, tea, and breakfast snacks
Bisque firing of pieces made during the workshop

Good to know

This is a hands-on workshop, so we suggest wearing an apron or old clothes that you don't mind getting dirty!
If you've never been to the Clay Center, please click here to review our location and free off-street parking information.
Feel free to email any questions to info@nolaclay.org

Refund Policies

100% if the workshop does not meet the minimum required number of attendees.
100% refund if the student notifies the Clay Center via email of the need to withdraw 14 or more days before the start date of the workshop.
No refunds are available for students who withdraw less than 14 days before the start date of the workshop, or who do not attend the workshop.

Deposit Policies

Students may choose to pay the full tuition when registering or they may choose to pay a $125 deposit.
If a deposit is paid, the remaining $100 balance must be paid by February 14, 2026.
A paid deposit may be refunded if the student notifies the Clay Center via email of the need to withdraw 14 or more days before the start date of the workshop.

Workshop: Pushing the Clay with Lora Rust