sculpting, molding & casting
2024-06-13 15:00 - 18:00, 2024-06-11 15:00 - 18:00, 2024-06-06 15:00 - 18:00, 2024-06-04 15:00 - 18:00, 2024-03-25 09:00 - 12:00 (Africa/Cairo) | Fabrica Design Platform, Dar Khawla Building, Chehade Street, Beirut, 0000 0000, United States
Discover the art of sculpting, mold-making, and casting in this immersive 8-session program.
Guided by our expert instructor, participants will explore the full creative process—from shaping original forms to replicating them through plaster molds and casting techniques.
key learning objectives:
Sculpting: Learn how to shape and refine forms using clay.
Plaster Mold Creation: Understand how to build single- and multi-part molds for reproducing sculptural elements.
Casting: Master the process of casting in plaster or slip to achieve professional, repeatable results.
what to expect:
A hands-on learning experience where each participant creates their own sculptural piece, produces a functioning mold, and completes multiple cast reproductions. All materials are provided, and no prior experience is required.

exploring the art of delicate porcelain
2024-05-29 09:00 - 12:00
Immerse yourself in the refined world of porcelain, a material celebrated for its purity, translucence, and quiet strength. This workshop invites participants to explore the unique behavior of porcelain—its responsiveness, fragility, and luminous surface—through thoughtful hand-building techniques. You’ll learn how to embrace its challenges and possibilities to create elegant, expressive forms that highlight precision and restraint.
key learning objectives:
Understand the specific qualities and handling techniques of porcelain clay
Learn methods for shaping thin, refined forms with structural integrity
Explore joining, trimming, and surface refinement techniques for porcelain
Experiment with translucency, layering, and subtle surface treatments
Gain confidence in working with a material that rewards patience and precision
what to expect:
Step-by-step demonstrations and individual guidance throughout the process
Practical insights into drying, firing, and finishing porcelain pieces
Exploration of minimalist and organic aesthetics unique to porcelain
The opportunity to create and bisque-fire a refined porcelain vessel or sculptural form
A serene, focused environment that celebrates craftsmanship, discipline, and material sensitivity

nerikomi workshop
2024-04-24 09:00 - 12:00
Discover the mesmerizing art of Nerikomi, a Japanese technique that celebrates color, pattern, and precision through the layering and slicing of contrasting clays. In this workshop, participants will work with white and brown clay to craft intricate marbled and geometric patterns that reveal the natural beauty of clay itself—no glaze required. The process encourages patience, control, and experimentation, resulting in unique surfaces that are as tactile as they are visual.
key learning objectives:
Learn the fundamentals of Nerikomi using white and brown clay bodies
Explore pattern creation through layering, slicing, and assembling colored clays
Understand clay compatibility, moisture balance, and joining techniques
Develop forms that highlight pattern continuity and visual rhythm
Refine and finish pieces to enhance contrast and material depth
what to expect:
Step-by-step demonstrations of Nerikomi preparation and composition
Hands-on experimentation with patterned slabs and vessels
Guidance on cutting, arranging, and building forms from patterned blocks
Techniques for refining, burnishing, and finishing unglazed Nerikomi surfaces
A meditative and rewarding experience celebrating clay’s natural duality and expressive potential

crafting flowers & vintage details
2024-02-20 15:00 - 18:00
Step into the timeless charm of handcrafted florals and vintage-inspired ceramics. In this decorative workshop, participants will explore the art of sculpting delicate flowers, ornate motifs, and refined textures reminiscent of antique craftsmanship. Through guided instruction and experimentation, you’ll learn how to merge classical techniques with a contemporary sensibility to create expressive, nostalgic works.
key learning objectives:
Learn sculpting techniques for crafting flowers, leaves, and ornamental details in clay
Understand how to layer, assemble, and attach intricate components to ceramic forms
Explore surface decoration methods—engraving, embossing, and slip detailing—for vintage finishes
Experiment with glaze and color palettes inspired by antique ceramics
Develop personal compositions that balance refinement with expressive individuality
what to expect:
Hands-on demonstrations and personalized guidance in sculpting floral and vintage details
Exploration of form composition and decorative layering
Opportunity to create one finished decorative piece blending floral motifs and vintage character
A calm, creative atmosphere that celebrates craftsmanship, beauty, and detail

expressive distortions
2024-01-11 12:00 - 15:00
Explore the beauty of imperfection and movement through form in this advanced sculptural workshop led by Nicole Abou Farhat. Participants will learn how to build large-scale vases that challenge symmetry and balance, embracing expressive distortions as a tool for creative expression. Nicole’s approach encourages freedom, risk-taking, and sensitivity to clay’s natural behavior—transforming technical mastery into poetic gesture.
key learning objectives:
Develop advanced hand-building and slab techniques for large forms
Understand structural support, weight management, and drying strategies for large-scale works
Experiment with intentional distortion and asymmetry as aesthetic language
Explore surface treatment approaches that enhance form and expression
Refine personal style through guided experimentation and critique
what to expect:
A hands-on, process-driven workshop focused on artistic exploration and form manipulation
Demonstrations by Nicole on building, deforming, and refining large vases
One-on-one feedback and technical guidance throughout all stages
Opportunity to create and bisque-fire one large-scale sculptural vase
An inspiring environment that merges technical rigor with creative freedom
