A one day workshop using terracotta to create a decorative panel

This workshop will offer an introduction to working with terracotta to model a panel in bas-relief. The pieces will be fired and returned to the Moira workshop for you to pick up and take home. All materials and lunch, tea and coffee will be provided. No experience necessary!

This taster day is being delivered as part of the All Ireland Heritage Skills Programme public events series, supported by The National Lottery Heritage Fund. These workshops aim to increase opportunities for everyone to get involved with and learn more about heritage skills.

Who should attend?

This taster day is for anyone who has an interest in ceramics. The session would be useful to a variety of attendees, from enthusiasts to those thinking of becoming ceramicists or wanting to introduce different materials and methods into their work. No experience is required, and you will be guided by an experienced craftsperson.

Date: Thursday, 12th November 2026

Time: 10am-4pm

Programme:

10am Welcome, tea/coffee

10.15am Session 1

12.30pm Lunch (provided)

1pm Session 2

4pm Close

Important information for attendees:

This event is limited to a maximum of ten attendees to maximise safety and opportunities to learn from the craftspeople. Please be aware that this taster day is taking place in a working depot. Attendees should wear sensible footwear, and it is advised that attendees wear warm clothing/ layers as activities will be taking place semi-outdoors. PPE will be provided. Lunch will be provided, if you have any dietary requirements, please contact the event organiser at heritage@citbni.org.uk following your booking.

Getting here:

There is limited parking at the depot, and participants are encouraged to take public transport wherever possible. The depot is located next door to Moira Train station, which has frequent trains to/ from Belfast. If attendees will require a car at the depot, please contact the event organiser to allow monitoring of car parking availability.

Trainers Overview:

The session will be led by award-winning ceramicist Dr Eleanor Wheeler. Eleanor completed a first class honours degree in Art at the University of Aberdeen before completing an MA in Ceramics at Cardiff University, followed by a PHD in Architectural Ceramics and Public Art in Northumbria University.

Upon returning to Northern Ireland in 1997, Eleanor has worked as a designer-maker, specialising in large-scale sculpture for public spaces, buildings and gardens, and has undertaken many public and private commissions. Eleanor has also undertaken international residencies in China, The Czech Republic and India which have inspired her work.

Awards received include the Rosy James Award, Support for the Individual Artist (SIAP) and The Arts Council International Residency Award, along with the European prize for science fiction awards with Jim Fitzpatrick for the 2019 Hugo Award.

Description supplied by the event organiser.