Ceramic sound masks course

with Martín Gastón Merlos e Julieta Bilbao

-Nómada Cerámica-

Immersive course on how to create a ceramic sound mask

Ceramic instruments have been used by different cultures in America since ancient times as a way of connecting with the elements. These sound objects were used for music, dance and different daily habits, having a deep ritual and ceremonial significance in the lives of the communities.

The Ceramic Sound Masks course will provide an immersive learning experience connected with the five elements - clay, water, air, fire, and sound. From Argentina to Cerdeira, we've invited Martin and Julieta to teach us an ancient practice with a contemporary approach, a result of our trainers' research and experimentation.

We start this 10-day course with a sound ceremony - the gateway to the universe of sound ceramics. Faced with the multiple sound possibilities offered by ceramics, we will stimulate our sensitivity and intention, which will accompany us throughout the course. 

Then, with all the necessary materials and tools, each participant will create their own ceramic mask inspired by ancient cultures and aesthetics. 

Finally, we’ll build a woodfired brick kiln, where the pieces produced during the course will be fired. Characteristic for its ease of execution and low cost, you can later replicate this kiln at home!
The ancient techniques applied in the construction and firing process are a reflection of the cultural legacy that has been preserved over time in America. Using a brick kiln to fire ceramic pieces is a practice that combines tradition and art. Direct contact with the fire, observing the flames and controlling the temperature are unique experiences that enrich the creative process of ceramics.

The perfect way to end this immersive experience in Cerdeira!

course details

PROGRAM:

• Sound Ceremony;

• Theoretical introduction to sound ceramics - the importance of these sound objects and their history in ancient America and the present; 

• Yerba mate ceremony;

• Design and construction of a ceramic sound mask;

• Sound system - aerophone and idiophone;

• Finishing techniques - ornamentation, modeling, polishing;

• Construction of a brick kiln;

• Woodfiring;

• Waterproofing the masks and incorporating other materials.

• Collective sound action and farewell ritual.

This course includes theoretical training, technical and conceptual support, and practical training where each participant builds their own sound mask and the kiln in which it will be fired. Request the full program by email to artsandcrafts@cerdeirahomeforcreativity.com  

SCHEDULE:

May 14th:

3 pm: Accommodation and check-in of participants 

4:30 pm: Reception at the Atelier and presentation of the group and trainers;

7:30 pm: Welcome dinner at Casa das Artes

15th-23rd May: 

course from 10 am to 6 pm, with a two-hour lunch break*

*The schedule is flexible on the day the kiln firing starts and ends.

May 24th:

Until 11 am: check-out from accommodation

CONDITIONS

• Deadline for enrollment: March 14th, 2025.

• Special discount for members of our community available for early bird registrations by 11/11/2024.

THE COURSE FEE INCLUDES:

• Integration in a small group of participants;

• Training 6 hours a day, speaking Spanish with Portuguese and English support;

• Bibliographic materials to support the workshop (digital format);

• The studio is open 12 hours a day;

• Lunch during the course;

• Free accommodation at the hostel during the course (10 nights)*;

• Welcome dinner on the first day of the course;

• All the materials needed for the course, except decoration materials**;

*The hostel is equipped with two dormitories (female/masculine), a kitchen, and two shared bathrooms. The booking includes towels and linen.

**Does not include additional materials for decorating the masks, such as textiles, stones, metals, feathers, wood, etc. Any additional materials for decorating the mask must be brought by each participant to add a personal touch.

ACCOMMODATION UPGRADES AVAILABLE:

• Upgrade to 10 nights in a standard schist house shared by 2 participants and breakfast at an additional cost of 700€/per participant. Includes shared room, equipped kitchen, towels, and bed linen. 

• Upgrade to 10 nights in a standard schist house for single occupancy by 1 participant and breakfast, with an additional cost of 1000€/per participant. Includes single room, equipped kitchen, towels, and bed linen.

Please note that all accommodation options have limited availability and will be booked according to the order of registration and payment. This rate is not cumulative with other discounts or promotions. For more information, contact artsandcrafts@cerdeirahomeforcreativity.com.

ENROLLMENTS AND MORE INFO:

artsandcrafts@cerdeirahomeforcreativity.com

+351 913 989 281*

*(call to national mobile network)

CANCELLATION POLICY FOR COURSES AND WORKSHOPS

You may withdraw within 14 days of registration, paying the correspondent transfer fees. Following the EU consumer protection legislation, payments are not refunded past 14 days of registration. The payment will be fully reimbursed if the training cannot be held because of insufficient students.

Suppose the training is canceled by Cerdeira - Home For Creativity for reasons of significant force such as a pandemic, civil disorder, a natural catastrophe, medical or family issues of the teacher, and others beyond our control. In that case, Cerdeira will offer a voucher for a different workshop of your choice. The voucher is valid for two years.

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