Enjoy a relaxed and encouraging atmosphere at this event. Materials are provided, and refreshments are available from Port Independent.

Join us for a Clay Idols workshop at Port Independent in the heart of Sunderland! This unique event is open to artists of all levels. Whether you're looking to hone your skills or just try something new in a welcoming environment, this is the perfect opportunity to connect with other creatives in the North East.

In this workshop designed for beginners, you will be led by artist Bethany Stead to make your own idols, talismans and votives using air-dry clay. Under Bethany’s guidance, you will learn foundational building and decoration techniques to make small objects and sculptures inspired by historical artefacts, that can be used to inspire, guide or protect you.

Events are PWYF, but we suggest three ticket options.

Subsidised Admission £8 + Fees

Standard Admission £12 + Fees

Supporter Admission £16 + Fees

Carer Tickets Free (Limited)Pay what you can – each ticket gets the same experience. Higher tiers support those who can’t afford full cost right now.

Hosted at Port Independent—a vibrant coffee shop, clothing store, and social space—we provide a safe and supportive environment for everyone to express their creativity.

Guidance

Participants are expected to be respectful to the workshop leader and other participants at all times.

Please let us know beforehand if you have any needs we can accommodate, and we will do our best to meet them. Email hello@creativeworkshopsnecic.com

We aim to offer an inclusive space that is LGBTQ+ friendly and against racism and discrimination.

Photographs may be taken during the session for promotional purposes. Please let the host know if you would like to opt out.

Music will be playing in the background during the session. If you are sensitive to noise, please bring headphones/ earplugs.

The session is guided by a workshop facilitator. The facilitator is a professional artist that will explain the aims of the workshop and then teach you the techniques you need to complete your project. They will be available at all times to give guidance to attendees.

All materials are provided and we aim to keep any equipment or materials affordable so that you can continue to use your new skills at home without a large expense.

Paying artists is important to us, we use funding gratefully received from the National Lottery Community Fund to make the tickets for this event as affordable as possible while still appropriately paying the artists we work with.

Please contact us if you have any questions.

What is Creative Workshops NE CIC?

Creative Workshops CIC is a community enterprise / non-profit organisation that serves the northeast region. We aim to provide creative workshops to underserved communities that increase well-being outcomes through creative practice.

Accessing the space

When you arrive, the shutters on the front of the building will be down, but the side door will be open from 6pm.

Please get in touch with the venue if you have any access requirements.

There is a gender-neutral bathroom available

Seating includes standard café chairs; if you need a chair with arms, back support, or floor space for cushions, feel free to bring your own or notify us in advance.

Music will be playing during the session. If you’re sound-sensitive, we suggest bringing earplugs or noise-cancelling headphones.

If you have access needs, please email hello@creativeworkshopsnecic.com

Travel

Port Independent is a short walk from the nearby Sunderland Metro Station.

The image below shows the closed front shutters and the open side door.

Description supplied by the event organiser.