This hands-on workshop introduces participants to the basics of Chadō, the Japanese tea ceremony, exploring its history, philosophy, and key etiquette. We’ll begin with a “hataraki” – an adaptation of a tea ceremony that highlights the values of mindfulness, harmony, respect, and simplicity at the heart of the practice. (The tea experience will be “ryurei” (table-style) rather than using an authentic tea space on tatami mats).
After the tea ceremony introduction, participants will transition into a clay session, creating their own tea bowls using the pinch pot method. This approachable hand-building technique emphasizes touch, intention, and the beauty of subtle imperfections—echoing the spirit of the tea ceremony itself.
Once the bowls are formed, participants will decorate their work with Porcelain slip, adding surface details and patterns inspired by traditional and contemporary tea ware. Finished pieces will be fired after the workshop and available for pickup at a later date.
No prior experience is necessary; all materials are provided.
A $15 materials fee will be paid directly to Brooke via cash or Venmo on the day of the workshop.
Meet the Instructor
Born in New York, Brooke moved to London and worked at Pentagram Design before being hired as Assistant Art Director of Harpers & Queen Magazine. She later worked in the design departments of Vogue, Tatler, Elle, and GQ. Brooke was eventually made Director of Photography of Getty Images in Paris. In her 12+ years in Cape Town, she shot international campaigns for major corporations and editorials for prestigious international magazines nd virtually every major magazine in South Africa. She has also directed music videos that appeared on MTV and two dance films which were screened at dance festivals. Her film Chiaroscuro was shortlisted for the prestigious 90 Seconds of Dance Festival. Brooke began working in ceramics in 2019 and has taken part in numerous exhibitions, including the Members’ Exhibition at Hunterdon Art Museum.