On May 16, Baltimore Clayworks welcomed artists into the studio for a powerful day of creativity and connection during our Visiting Artist Workshop, Telling a Story Through Soft-Slab and Figure, led by ceramic sculptor and educator Janathel Shaw.
Throughout the seven-hour workshop, participants explored how clay can become a vessel for personal narrative, imagination, and reflection. Using soft-slab construction, layering techniques, and pinch methods, artists developed expressive figure sculptures inspired by poetry, novels, memories, sketches, and meaningful stories from their own lives. The workshop encouraged participants not only to create with their hands, but also to reflect deeply on the ideas and emotions behind their work.
The studio was filled with thoughtful conversation and collaborative energy. Participants arrived with journals, sketches, and inspiration in hand, ready to translate ideas into form. Janathel guided the group through her sculptural approach with warmth and generosity, encouraging experimentation and helping artists of all experience levels feel comfortable exploring figurative storytelling through clay.
One of the most meaningful moments of the workshop came during a short outdoor reflection break, where participants continued developing ideas through sketching and journaling. These quiet moments of observation and conversation strengthened the sense of community that became central to the day’s experience.
As sculptures began to take shape, so did the unique voices and perspectives of each participant. Some works reflected personal memories and identity, while others leaned into fantasy, symbolism, or social commentary. The workshop became a reminder that ceramics can be more than functional or decorative; it can also be deeply narrative, emotional, and connective.
Baltimore Clayworks is grateful to Janathel Shaw for sharing her artistic practice, insight, and passion with our community. Her thoughtful approach to storytelling through sculpture inspired participants to think differently about the possibilities of clay and the stories we carry with us.
We also thank everyone who joined us for this special workshop and contributed to such an engaging and supportive creative environment. We look forward to seeing these sculptures again after firing!
