Crafting Hand-Built Ceramic Fountains with Francis River

In this 2-day workshop, participants will join artist and ceramicist Francis River to design and construct hand-built ceramic fountains. Participants will explore coil building, and sculpting techniques to create functional and creative fountains. We’ll focus on water flow, pump integration, and artistic design. After bisque firing, we will reunite for a third session to assemble the fountains with provided pump kits and test them for proper operation. This class is open to
all skill levels, with no prior experience required.

Day 1 - Building Fountain Components: (Saturday, February 15th, 10am - 2pm)

On the first day, participants will dive into hand-building techniques to create the main components of their fountains. Francis will demonstrate coil building methods, as well as sculptural techniques for creating basins, extensions, and decorative elements. We’ll discuss design principles for water flow and functionality. Participants will spend the remainder of the session constructing their pieces, with plenty of time for individual guidance and experimentation. 

Day 2 - Refining and Surface Design:  (Sunday, February 16th, 10am - 2pm) 

The second day will focus on refining the components created on Day 1. Participants will smooth edges, add textural details, and ensure all pieces are structurally sound for firing. Francis will introduce methods for adding surface textures and patterns, such as carving, stamping, and slip decoration. We’ll also discuss glazing strategies and plan for firing. By the end of the session, all components will be ready for bisque firing.

Day 3 - Assembling and Testing Fountains:  (Sunday, February 23rd, 10am - 12pm)

In the final session, participants will assemble and test their fountains. Pieces will be bisque fired in advance and ready for assembly. Francis will provide pump kits and
guide participants through installing the fountain pumps and tubing. We’ll test the fountains for water flow and troubleshoot any adjustments needed to ensure proper functionality. Participants will leave with a working fountain and the skills to create more.

Additional Information:

•  A 25-pound bag of cone 5 clay will be provided. Bisque firing are included in the workshop fee.
• Pump kits will be provided for assembly.
• Participants are encouraged to bring sketches or design references for
  inspiration.
• Skill Level Required: Open to all skill levels. No prior wheel-throwing or hand-building experience is necessary.

588 Mateo St, Los Angeles, CA 90013

• Saturday, February 15th  //  10 am - 2 pm
• Sunday, February 16th  //   10 am - 2 pm
• Saturday, February 23rd   //    10 am - 12 pm 

Francis River is an interdisciplinary artist, farmer, and researcher based in Los Angeles, CA. Their work is deeply rooted in the intersections of ecology, agriculture, and community, using art as a lens to explore humanity’s relationship with the natural world. Drawing from their experience in soil science and ecological restoration, Francis creates pieces that serve as both meditations on environmental stewardship and calls to action.

Guided by an ethos of connection—between people, the planet, and the systems that sustain us—Francis finds inspiration in the cycles of life found in soil, seeds, and food production. Their work often integrates themes of regeneration, collaboration, and care, reflecting their belief that ecological health mirrors the health of our relationships with each other and the land.

Working across mediums such as ceramics, installation, and painting, Francis creates pieces that are tactile, functional, and deeply narrative. Each piece invites viewers to consider their place in the broader ecological system, challenging them to think about sustainability and the interconnectedness of human and environmental resilience.

Francis’s work has been shown in galleries from Los Angeles to New York City, engaging audiences in conversations about the beauty and fragility of our shared world. Whether through art, farming, or research, their practice is a continuous dialogue with the land, fostering a sense of gratitude, curiosity, and responsibility.

Instagram: @francis_river

• By enrolling in a class or workshop, you are acknowledging that you have read and understand the safety instructions and liability waiver.
• Please plan to arrive early so we can start class promptly at the scheduled time.

• There is a cancellation fee of $20 for all workshops. Cancellations made 4 or more days before the date of class will be refunded minus this fee. For cancellations made fewer than 4 full days, but more than 24 hours before the start time, a 50% refund or 50% credit toward another class or workshop will be issued. We cannot provide refunds or credits for cancellations or rescheduling requests made fewer than 24 hours before the start time of class, if you miss your class, or arrive too late to participate.

• Our classes are intended for adults. If you have a child under 18 who is interested in taking a class, please email us before enrolling.