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Wolf Craft School

Copalera Workshop | Wednesday April 23, 10am-4:30pm

Regular price
$170.00
Regular price
Sale price
$170.00
Date: Wednesday, April 23, 2025
Time: 10:00am - 4:30pm
Cost: $170 
Location: 205C York St., Nevada City, CA 95959

Workshop Description:

In this full-day workshop, you will learn to create a copalera, a traditional incense burner, using hand-forming techniques such as pinching and coiling. We will carefully shape and assemble the components to construct a functional and beautiful piece, perfect for burning copal or other incense.

Working with high-quality terracotta clay, known for its resistance to thermal shock, you’ll craft and personalize your copalera with incised designs and white slip. You are encouraged to bring personal symbols, images, or sketches to incorporate into your decoration, making your piece uniquely meaningful.

If you prefer, you may choose to create an alternative vessel, such as a chalice, goblet, or other form, as the same techniques apply.

This is an immersive, all-day class with a lunch break, so please bring your own nourishment. To keep us refreshed, I will provide Oaxacan cacao, along with coffee and tea for an afternoon pick-me-up. Expect a day of creativity, cultural connection, and hands-on craftsmanship as you bring your vision to life. Your finished piece will be fired after the class and will be available for pickup after May 9th. 

About the Instructor

Saskia Martin

Saskia Martin

Ceramic Artist & Educator

Originally from Barcelona, I discovered my passion for clay while teaching in Japan, leading to an apprenticeship in Mashiko, where I trained in traditional wood-fired ceramics. Back in the U.S., I apprenticed with Otto Heino in Ojai, attended workshops with Paul Soldner, and participated in firings at Penland, Watershed, and Cider Creek Collective. I later returned to Japan for an Anagama firing in Tamba Sasayama.

Now based in Grass Valley, I create, formulate glazes, and fire in electric and gas kilns. I teach wheel throwing and host workshops with visiting artists, sharing my passion for clay and fire.

I balance functional and sculptural forms, drawing inspiration from Japanese and European aesthetics. My work reflects nature’s textures and colors, from tree bark to ocean waves. While I primarily fire in cone 10 reduction, I also explore terracotta and slip decoration.

I actively participate in wood firings across Northern California, embracing the collaborative effort and unpredictable beauty of flame and ash. The true reward is seeing handmade pieces become part of daily life, elevating simple moments into rituals of beauty and connection.

Policies

By signing up for a class, you agree to these policies:

You may cancel a class for a full refund or class credit 14 days before the start date of the class. 

All scheduled classes and workshops start and end on time. Please be prompt in your arrival and departure, as we often have other classes starting after yours. Arriving 15 minutes late to a class counts as a no-show, and no make up class will be offered. Instructors are subject to change.

We reserve the right to cancel any class due to low enrollment or unforeseen conflicts. If a class is cancelled, we will do our best to reschedule the session.  If you are unable to attend the rescheduled class, you will be issued a refund. 

Please note that we may take photos during the workshop to use on social media.  If you do wish to be photographed, please let the teacher know when you arrive.

Wolf Craft Collective, LLC or any person or persons acting on its behalf is released from liability for any bodily injuries sustained, or for loss or damage of any personal articles while on the premises or while participating in any activity sponsored by Wolf Craft Collective, LLC. 

There is a metered parking lot very close to the Tinnery, please ensure you have coins to pay the meter, as it does not accept cards.

Gift cards can be applied toward all classes or Wolf Craft merchandise.  Gift Cards can not be redeemed for cash.  Gift Cards do not expire.