At this ceramics workshop in Kyiv, you’ll create a large turtle-shaped ceramic lamp by hand. With a supporting mould and KUST’s guided programme, you can enjoy the process even without previous experience. Over two classes, clay becomes a functional lamp with light inside.

What will your turtle look like?

You decide on the character of your lamp: the shape of its head and flippers, the relief of its shell, textures, patterns and decorative details. Your turtle can be realistic, fantastical, minimalist or inspired by the sea. Openings in the shell will cast a distinctive pattern when the lamp is lit.

How the workshop works

The first class lasts up to 4 hours and focuses on sculpting with professional clay. Using a mould, you’ll create the lamp’s base and shape the shell, head, flippers and details of your own design. Participants often finish this stage in approximately 3 hours. Afterwards, the piece will remain at the studio to dry slowly and undergo its first firing.

The second class lasts 2 hours and takes place approximately two weeks later. You’ll choose colours and glaze your turtle. The instructor will help you select glazes, combine shades and bring out the shell’s relief. After the final firing, the lamp will be fitted with electrical components and an LED bulb.

What’s included

The price includes two classes with an instructor, professional sculpting clay, ceramic glazes and other materials, use of all studio tools, two high-temperature firings, electrical fittings, an LED bulb and guidance at every stage.

Who is the workshop for?

The Turtle Lamp workshop is suitable for a first experience with ceramics, a creative date or time spent making something with someone close to you. You can work on one lamp alone or as a pair at the same price. Even without experience, you’ll be able to create a detailed, finished piece.

Give the workshop as a gift

A gift certificate for the Turtle Lamp workshop makes an unusual present for a birthday, Christmas, New Year, an anniversary or Valentine’s Day. It is valid for 12 months and can be used at a KUST studio in Kyiv, giving the recipient time to choose a convenient date.

What you’ll take home

Once every stage is complete, you’ll have a handmade ceramic lamp created from your own idea. Your turtle can become a gentle night light, an atmospheric source of light or a striking feature in your home, carrying the memory of the time you spent working with clay.