The World of Masks Workshop: A Cultural Clay Experience
Step into the ancient and expressive world of masks through clay in this hands-on ceramic mask workshop in Laguna Beach.
In this 2-hour guided clay handbuilding workshop, participants will explore the cultural and artistic history of masks across civilizations while creating their own ceramic mask sculpture. Masks have played powerful roles in storytelling, ritual, theater, and identity throughout human history—from ceremonial traditions to modern decorative art.
The workshop begins with clay slabs, where you'll learn how to carve and sculpt facial features, shape expression, and add dimensional elements using additional clay and underglaze decoration. With guidance from the instructor, Julie “Juls” Bagish, each participant will design a unique ceramic mask that can be displayed as wall art or decorative sculpture.
At the end of the workshop, your mask will remain with our Laguna Beach studio team for clear glazing and kiln firing, and will be ready for pickup within 3–4 weeks.
This is not just a clay class—it's a creative journey into symbolism, culture, and personal expression through ceramic art.
What You’ll Experience
We begin with a brief introduction to the history and cultural significance of masks, exploring how different societies have used masks in ritual, storytelling, performance, and visual art traditions around the world.
You’ll then:
• Work with pre-rolled clay slabs to form your mask base
• Learn ceramic handbuilding and carving techniques to shape facial features
• Sculpt details such as eyes, noses, textures, and symbolic elements
• Use underglaze decoration to enhance expression and design
• Receive step-by-step artistic guidance throughout the process
By the end of the session, you will have created a personalized ceramic mask sculpture that can be used as a wall piece or decorative art object.
What’s Included
• Pre-rolled clay slab for mask creation
• Clay tools and sculpting materials
• Underglaze colors for decoration
• Step-by-step artistic guidance from the instructor
• Clear glazing by the studio
• Kiln firing of your finished ceramic mask
Your finished ceramic artwork will be ready for pickup once glazing and firing are complete.
Meet the Artist
Julie “Juls” Bagish
Julie Bagish was born in New York City in 1941, during the early years of World War II. With roots in the Scottish Hunter Clan, her childhood began with a journey west by troop train with her mother to live with her grandparents in Eugene, Oregon while her father served during the war.
After his return four years later, the family settled in Portland, where Julie grew up surrounded by the forests and coastline of the Pacific Northwest.
She later earned an English degree from Northwestern University, followed by a Master’s scholarship in Rehabilitation at New York University.
Julie and her husband Marty later lived in Kanazawa, Japan, after Marty received a Mombusho Fellowship to study Japanese linguistics and history. During their time there—spanning two separate stays totaling six years—Julie began studying ceramics with the renowned Japanese potter Kimpea Nakamura.
Between teaching English as a second language, she immersed herself in the traditions of Japanese pottery and ceramic arts, an experience that deeply influenced her artistic perspective and lifelong relationship with clay.
Through her workshops, Juls combines storytelling, cultural exploration, and hands-on ceramic instruction, guiding students to discover their own voice through clay.
Workshop Details
Workshop: Ceramic Mask Making Workshop
Date: Friday, April 17
Time: 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM
Location: Laguna Beach Studio, Laguna Beach, California
Price: $65 per person
Ages: 13+
Capacity: Maximum 12 participants
Experience Level: Beginner friendly – no prior ceramics experience required
Who This Workshop Is For
• Beginners curious about ceramics and clay sculpting
• Teens and adults (13+) interested in art workshops in Laguna Beach
• Anyone interested in cultural art traditions and symbolism
• Creative date nights or friends’ outings
• People who want to explore sculptural clay work
FAQs
Is this workshop beginner-friendly?
Yes. This Laguna Beach ceramic workshop is designed for all skill levels and includes guided instruction throughout the process.
What happens to my mask after the workshop?
Your ceramic mask will remain at the studio where we will clear glaze and kiln fire it for durability and finish.
When can I pick it up?
Finished pieces are typically ready within a few weeks, and you’ll receive a pickup notification once your piece has completed firing.
What should I wear?
Comfortable clothing you don’t mind getting a little messy while working with clay.
Reserve Your Spot
Space is limited to maintain an intimate and high-quality creative experience.
Join us in Laguna Beach and discover the art, symbolism, and expressive power of mask making through clay in this unique ceramic workshop experience.