Alison and Abi Firing Workshops

Contact name: Alison West/Abi Higgins

30
Total bookings

Rating

(33)

over 7 years
with CraftCourses

Maker's bio

Alison West Ceramics and Abi Higgins Ceramics are known for their distinct styles and contributions to the craft and both show their work nationally. They first crossed paths within the pottery community and have since collaborated on numerous firing workshops, fostering a rich exchange of ideas and techniques. Alison West has gained recognition for her innovative approach to pottery, particularly in the realm of saggar firing and reduction techniques. Her work reflects a unique fusion of traditional craftsmanship with contemporary flair, showcasing intricate patterns and textures brought to life through her saggar firing process. On the other hand, Abi Higgins is celebrated for her expertise in reduction-fired domestic ware and raku firing. Her pieces are characterized by their functional yet aesthetically pleasing designs, often featuring vibrant glazes and captivating surface treatments achieved through the dynamic raku firing method. Together, Alison and Abi's workshops provide a comprehensive exploration of firing techniques, offering participants the opportunity to learn from their wealth of experience and refine their own skills in pottery making. Their collaborative efforts not only enrich the local pottery scene but also inspire aspiring potters to push the boundaries of creativity and craftsmanship.

Courses, kits & gifts

gold award

Christow, Exeter

Raku, Saggar, Barrel, Copper Matte & Horsehair Firing Weekend Workshops 2025

2 days

Next date: 19th Jul 2025

9 places left

(33)

£335.00

Recent reviews

All maker's reviews

8 Apr 25'

Barbara Suchorzewski reviewed: Raku, Saggar, Barrel, Copper Matte & Horsehair Firing Weekend Workshops 2025

"This course is run by Alison and Abi, two amazing tutors with a mine of information that they share in a really relaxed way over the two days. I am a fairly new potter with no experience of the techniques demonstrated and I was amazed at the results we achieved. It was a full course of ten people all with varying levels of experience but the demos were so detailed and the help on hand to guide us was second to none. I can’t say enough to encourage you to do this course, we managed to do all elements of the course which was timed to perfection. Such a lovely bunch of like minded people all helping each other really has been a joy. I can’t wait to repeat some of the techniques here at home. Again a huge thank you to our gifted tutors for sharing their passion and igniting mine. "

Alison and Abi Firing Workshops responded:

"Thank you so much Barbara, it was a pleasure to have you and delighted you had such a great experience. Enjoy playing! "

6 Oct 24'

Maria Rossetter reviewed: Raku, Saggar, Barrel, Copper Matte & Horsehair Firing Weekend Workshops 2025

"I had the best time. Abi and Alison are the best!. We did lots of different firings. It was absolutely amazing and seeing the different results we all achieved. Abi and Alison made the course so much fun and very informative. I learnt a lot and would definitely go back again. I would highly recommend it to anyone who loves pottery or who has never done any ceramics before. The location was beautiful and the homemade lunch and cakes provided were so yummy! I am so pleased with my pots and I will show them of! Thank you Abi and Alison xx🙂 "

22 Sep 23'

Le.Jack reviewed: Raku, Saggar, Barrel, Copper Matte & Horsehair Firing Weekend Workshops 2025

" Abi and Ali, the tutors, are so generous with their time, skills, materials and energy. A wonderful weekend with like minded people, in a beautiful setting. Plus our fired creations were amazing."

16 Sep 23'

Dee Noble reviewed: Raku, Saggar, Barrel, Copper Matte & Horsehair Firing Weekend Workshops 2025

"A second visit to this idyllic setting for a weekend of fun and friendship. I learned so much from Alison and Abi and appreciated support and friendship from other participants. A wonderful experience."