Sound Sculptures in Clay with Natalia & Hernan
Embark on a fascinating exploration of clay-based sound sculptures with expert ceramicists Hernan and Natalia in the vibrant city of Oaxaca. Learn about ancestral sound systems and intricate techniques of crafting wind, percussive, and hydraulic sound structures out of clay. When you’re not in the studio, indulge in the delectable Oaxacan cuisine, rich pottery, and textile traditions.
- Snacks, Coffee, & Tea
Pricing
- One Guest
- USD $1065
- Additional guest(s) (max 4)
- USD $600
Meet the Artist
Natalia and Hernan are Latin American ceramists and sound sculpture artists. They are some of the few ceramists worldwide with expertise in creating ceramic sound systems. Natalia, an architect and ceramist of Brazilian-Bolivian descent, draws inspiration from her Andean heritage and the ritualistic sound systems crafted from clay in various Latin American cultures. An Argentine musician, Hernan melds 20 years of experience making music, ceramic udu, and other instruments.
Their focus lies in studying ancestral sound pieces from the American continent. Through pioneering experiments, they have developed innovative methods for crafting sculptures that produce captivating sounds. Together, they continuously push the boundaries of ceramic sound art, generously sharing their knowledge and passion through workshops, enlightening talks, and enchanting musical performances.
When you meet them, you'll witness their artistic practice, which is both a homage to ancient cultures and a celebration of the profound connection between ceramics, sound, and the natural world.
Their focus lies in studying ancestral sound pieces from the American continent. Through pioneering experiments, they have developed innovative methods for crafting sculptures that produce captivating sounds. Together, they continuously push the boundaries of ceramic sound art, generously sharing their knowledge and passion through workshops, enlightening talks, and enchanting musical performances.
When you meet them, you'll witness their artistic practice, which is both a homage to ancient cultures and a celebration of the profound connection between ceramics, sound, and the natural world.
VAWAA Includes:
- Create sound sculptures in clay.
- Learn about ancestral sound pieces from the American continent.
- Study different pieces created by Hernan and Natalia and the sounds they make.
- Explore techniques to build wind (such as flutes, ocarinas, and whistles), percussive and hydraulic sound systems in clay.
- Develop the sculptural aesthetic.
- Enjoy the incredible experience of hearing the sound of ceramic instruments.
- Visit the city museum to learn more about the ancestral ceramics of the region.
- Enjoy a lunch of local Oaxacan foods.
Explore Oaxaca
Oaxaca is a vibrant artisan pueblo with rich indigenous roots. It offers a captivating mix of culture, landscapes, and cuisine. Try the delightful mole sauces, tlayudas, and mezcal. Wander the colorful streets with colonial buildings, murals, and folk art traditions. Dive into bustling markets with textiles, pottery, and spices. Discover Zapotec ruins like Monte Albán and Mitla, and marvel at Hierve el Agua's petrified waterfalls. Oaxaca guarantees an unforgettable experience for art, food, and nature lovers.
Additional Details
Oaxaca is beautiful year-round. Visiting in April–June and September is great if you prefer a peaceful city with fewer crowds. For music and festivities, visit during Carnival (February), Holy Week (end of March), the Guelaguetza festival (July), and the Day of the Dead (end of October–November).
This VAWAA can be extended for up to 7 days to learn complex ceramic sound systems and excellent finishing techniques. Please ask when you submit your booking request.
Sessions can be adapted for the elderly and children 11 years or older. The studio entrance requires using one step and the bathroom is not wheelchair-accessible.
Hernan & Natalia speak English, Spanish, and Portuguese.
This VAWAA can be extended for up to 7 days to learn complex ceramic sound systems and excellent finishing techniques. Please ask when you submit your booking request.
Sessions can be adapted for the elderly and children 11 years or older. The studio entrance requires using one step and the bathroom is not wheelchair-accessible.
Hernan & Natalia speak English, Spanish, and Portuguese.
Guest Reviews
Elly A., United States
Getting to experience Natalia & Hernan's work in person, and feel the vibration of the instruments they have created. They’re really amazing artists but, also wonderful people who care so deeply for their passion of sound sculpture in clay.
Julie S., United States
A jolt of inspiration. That's what I was searching for and resoundingly received with Natalia and Hernan, in their studio full of music, joy and mind-expanding energy. I'd come with a huge interest in ceramics, a small amount of hands-on experience and a day job as a designer longing to work with my hands. Their knowledge is extensive and their instruction as we constructed clay instruments gave m Read more
Kathryn Lorraine P., Canada
This experience was so much more than I had hoped and expected. I chose this particular trip because of how endearing the photos of Natalia and Hernan were, and from the time we first met I felt so comfortable and at home. I came to Oaxaca as a beginner potter (less than 1 year) and a background as a painter. Making the whistle bottles seemed like a challenging goal but Natalia was very reassuring Read more
