10-02-2025
Charlotte Moore’s Ceramics Workshop at Drayton Manor
What happens when you combine architecture, nature, and a lump of clay? Magic. Well, magic with a bit of patience, craftsmanship, and, of course, a kiln.
We recently welcomed architect and ceramicist Charlotte Moore for an exclusive ceramics workshop, where students from across different year groups had the chance to get their hands dirty. With a blend of artistic precision and hands-on creativity, they worked under Charlotte’s guidance to craft their own unique clay tiles.
The session kicked off with students using moulds to shape their tiles before diving into the more intricate part, sculpting their own details inspired by nature. One of the most fascinating techniques they learned involved pressing leaves and flowers into the clay, leaving behind delicate reliefs of organic patterns. Who knew that the humble leaf could become a work of art with just a bit of pressure and some well-placed clay?
Of course, clay is not just about sculpting, it is about transformation. These newly created tiles are currently in their delicate drying stage before they head into the kiln. The process of firing, which is the alchemical moment where soft clay turns into solid ceramic, takes place in two key stages.
First, there is the “bisque firing,” which hardens the clay, followed by the “glaze firing,” which seals the piece with a glossy or matte finish.
But this workshop was not just about individual creativity. It was part of a larger artistic endeavour.
Charlotte Moore will soon return to Drayton Manor High School to continue her work on a ceramic installation for the new sixth form building. This permanent portico, that is based on an intricate design by Year 12 student Esma, will encapsulate the school’s ethos in a visually striking and meaningful way.
So, while the students’ tiles are waiting to be fired, their artistic impact is already heating up.
Who knows? Today’s pressed-leaf tile might just be tomorrow’s masterpiece.
