PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT WITH SYLPH BAIER
If you are a potter looking to turn pro – potters look no further! My husband and I looked long and hard for a teacher who could not only improve our potting skills but also someone who could help us to bring our vision for our new pottery venture to the next level. This was a very hard brief to fill but our residential week with Sylph totally exceeded our expectations.
As soon as we booked our stay, Sylph teased out what our goals were, this is quite a rare approach. Our training was a direct response to her developing a complete understanding of our concepts, level of experience, vision and long term goals.
We arrived with test tiles showing some of our bespoke glazes that we had created to reflect the Irish landscape and a few pots. The feedback on the glazes and further development of our shapes were invaluable. We covered every aspect of production pottery, selling wholesale, in person and on-line sales. Sylph has done it all – from shows, markets to becoming a supplier of pottery for Liberty’s of London – that level of experience is priceless. So, going forward we are able to steer our business in the direction we want to go and fits in with our lifestyle.
One of our goals was to see if we could throw some bigger pots – Sylph ensured that we rose to the challenge and her demonstrations and guidance are very hands on. We managed to centre and thrown larger vessels than we ever thought possible. Honestly, long after the week has gone, we still carry Sylph’s teachings in our heads and our confidence continues to grow as we practice and develop our skills.
This really was a mind, body and soul experience. Sylph has created a magical tranquil piece of heaven where you can totally immerse yourself in ceramics. Your days of course are spent in the studio. It is both intense and relaxing simultaneously and we had so many laughs both at our failures and our successes. Food is a big feature of the stay at the Mill. Sylph hand picks a variety of local restaurants where you join the locals for sunny al fresco dining sampling a fantastic array of delicious traditional French cuisine with an emphasis on local, seasonal and fresh. Likewise, your evening meal is loving created by Sylph using produce from her extensive home grown produce. Food served on Sylph’s beautiful ceramics make the meals all the more delicious…and inspiring.
The Mill itself is a real treat, so comfy, a step back in time and in the mornings you are welcomed with freshly ground coffee, home made breads, preserves, home grown fruit…oh, those freshly laid eggs. Also, the grounds were so beautiful we did not feel the need to go exploring the wider area. For those of you with the energy to match Sylph’s, she has many films, books and videos to be enjoyed and discussed in the evenings. What’s not to love?
Sylph – Simply the Best!!!
Noel & Lorna Bourke
Gallan Mor Artisan Ceramic Studio
