Language
Portuguese, English, Spanish
Duration
3 hours / 1 day
Difficulty
Beginner
Next Date
16/03/2026

Most ceramic techniques reveal themselves on the surface. Nerikomi ceramic hides its patterns inside the clay itself, only revealing them when the material is cut, shaped and assembled. My Nerikomi workshop in Porto introduces you to this ancient Japanese technique through a session built around experimentation, colour and the genuine surprise of watching a pattern emerge from a piece of clay you built with your own hands. Suitable for complete beginners and participants with some clay experience alike.

We start with an introduction to the Nerikomi technique and its Japanese origins before moving into the hands-on work. You will colour clay using natural oxides and work with pre-coloured clays prepared in advance, exploring how different combinations create contrast, depth and unexpected visual effects. From there you build your layered patterns and compositions, cutting and assembling the clay to reveal the designs running through it, before shaping your finished piece into a small plate, bowl or decorative object. I guide you through every stage of the process, from the first colour decisions to the final form.

What you’ll learn

🏺 The history and principles of the Nerikomi technique

🏺 How to colour clay using natural oxides

🏺 How to build layered patterns and graphic compositions within the clay

🏺 How patterns emerge and transform as clay is cut, shaped and assembled

🏺 How to shape your patterned clay into a finished ceramic object

What’s included

🎨 All clay, oxides, pre-coloured clays and tools

🎨 Full guidance from Marisa Grilo throughout the session

🎨 Your own unique patterned ceramic piece

🎨 Professional firing of your finished piece

What you leave with

A one-of-a-kind ceramic object with patterns running through the clay itself, completely unique because no two Nerikomi pieces ever come out the same.

I am Marisa Grilo, a multidisciplinary artist based in Portugal working across ceramics, printmaking and expressive illustration. My practice is rooted in tactile experimentation and a deep curiosity about what different materials can do when you push them in unexpected directions. This workshop is hosted at doBARRO studio in Porto, a space designed for exactly this kind of hands-on creative exploration.

No prior ceramic experience needed. If you are drawn to pattern, colour and the idea of making something genuinely unique with your hands, this workshop is for you.

Related Tags: Arts & Crafts, Art, Artisanal, Ceramics, Clay

Location

Rua da Alegria 246, Porto, Portugal

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FAQ

What is Nerikomi?

Nerikomi is an ancient Japanese ceramic technique where different colored clays are combined to create patterns that run through the clay itself, revealing beautiful designs when the clay is cut or shaped.

Do I need previous experience with ceramics?

No experience is required. This workshop is suitable for beginners, and our guidance adapts to each participant. Those with some clay experience are also welcome to explore the Nerikomi technique in a creative way.

What will I make during the workshop?

You will create a patterned ceramic piece, such as a small plate, bowl, or decorative object, using colored clay and Nerikomi techniques.

Will we color the clay ourselves?

Yes. Participants will have the opportunity to color clay using ceramic oxides and also work with pre-colored clays, allowing you to experiment with patterns, contrasts, and layered designs.

Can I take my piece home the same day?

Ceramic pieces need time to dry and be fired in the kiln. We can ship your finished piece to your home for an additional cost, or you can arrange to pick it up later.