The Woman Vessel Workshop
An exploration of form and connection through clay.
Join me in my London Studio for a 2-day focused workshop experience.
A global circle - live or pre-recorded.
Join from wherever you are, and connect with a like-minded international community.
When Woman 1 (shown right) was fired, I found myself reflecting on its curves.
Some parts flowed effortlessly; others felt misaligned.
I began to imagine a new piece — one that would preserve what I loved, while gently amending the parts that felt unresolved.
That quiet, physical contemplation led to Woman 2.
Continuing this process has brought me to today: six years later, having recently completed Woman 300.
The more time passes, the more I learn to collaborate with clay in a way that honours its limitations while giving space to my creative instincts.
Coiling has its quiet rules — its own rhythm.
Through trial and error, I’ve developed systems that help me navigate it with more confidence and ease.
My intention with this workshop is to share those systems with you.
Not as a strict blueprint, but as a map — something to guide you a little closer to the pieces you dream of making.
Upcoming Schedule
Level 1
Level 2
Understanding the Two Levels
Level 1 introduces my intuitive approach to coiling — a way of working that encourages responsiveness to the material, allowing forms to emerge organically. We focused on shaping outward curves, following the natural flow of the clay.
Level 2 offers a more structured pathway. You’ll receive a scaled section drawing of a vessel with an inward groove, and I’ll guide you through translating that from paper to form. This approach invites more planning, precision, and intentionality — helping you visualise and realise complex curves with greater control.
Together, these two levels offer complementary methods. One gives space to spontaneity, the other to clarity of vision. With both, you’ll begin to move fluidly between freedom and structure — developing your own rhythm, and shaping forms that feel both grounded and expressive.
"I enjoyed developing my skills in a lovely environment. Taking part in The Woman Vessel workshop helped me see the beauty in imperfection. Karina is a wonderful teacher and makes everyone feel that they have created something personal and unique. I would definitely recommend it. "
Alex
"I really enjoyed the way that Karina guided us to work. I loved the clay that she gave us and really enjoyed learning the techniques that Karina taught us. The combination allowed us all to make amazing pieces within a very short space of time.
The workshop showed me a new way to achieve sizeable sculptures in a technique that is very adaptable. I would definitely recommend this workshop. Karina is an excellent teacher who gives clear guidance whilst allowing freedom to find one's own way."
Mariana
Beginners & Advanced students are most welcome
The complexity of the form can be adjusted to suit your level of experience, ensuring everyone can participate and learn at their own pace.
Kindly note: To maintain the depth of the offering, spaces are very limited.
What will we cover ?
Coil Preparation
Design of Form
Pinching & Coiling
Assymetrical Curves
Change of Directions
Bellying Out
Horizontal Coiling
Narrow Necks
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What forms of payment are accepted?We currently accept Visa, MasterCard, American Express and PayPal. Please contact us if you would like to pay via Bank Transfer.
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What are Karina Smagulova’s returns and refund policy?See Shipping & Returns
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About colour variations:Every effort is made to ensure colours appear as realistic as possible. However, due to the constraints of digital reproduction on different web browsers, the exact colour depiction cannot be guaranteed. Please contact me if you would like to receive photographs of additional examples for each colour.
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What are my delivery options and how much will it cost?See Shipping & Returns
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Can I collect my purchase in order to avoid the shipping hussle?Of course, just use the code "collection" during the check out in order to collect your piece from the studio I work in London E10. Please, contact me beforehand in order to arrange the visit.
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Are the items you sell food safe?Yes. All the pieces are glazed using food safe glazes.
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Do you do custom orders?I love working on custom orders and special collaborations, contact me in case you have some special request or any idea.
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Can you remake a sold piece for me?If you like any of the sold pieces, get in touch with me and I'll do my best to make something similar for you.
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Where are you based?Every piece has been made by me in the studio where I work in East London.
TERMS & CONDITIONS:
IN-STUDIO IN LONDON
All materials and tools will be provided; all you need to bring is yourself.
The cost of firing your Woman Vessel is included.
We can arrange firing and, if needed, shipping your piece at an additional cost. This will be handled on a 1:1 basis on the final day of the workshop.
Shipping is calculated based on location.
Please note that if you choose to have your piece fired, it will be ready for collection or shipment within 6-8 weeks. You will receive an email confirmation once your piece is ready.
Cancellation Policy
Please note that to ensure the smooth operation of the studio and secure a calm creative practice, those classes are not refundable and it is not possible to reschedule sessions on other times.
Health and Safety
Participants must disclose any medical conditions or allergies that may affect their participation. You participate at your own risk and should exercise judgment regarding appropriate activities based on your physical and mental fitness.
Travel and Accommodation
Participants are responsible for their own travel and accommodation arrangements. The organizers are not liable for any associated costs or issues.
Materials and Services
The cost of firing and shipping ceramics is not included and will be handled individually.
Insurance
Participants are encouraged to have personal or travel insurance that covers accidents, injuries, or loss during the workshop.
Media Release
By purchasing, you consent to being photographed, recorded, and the use of your image, voice, and likeness for marketing purposes without compensation. You release the organizers from any related liability.
Photography Policy
Participants may take personal photos during the workshop but are prohibited from commercial filming or recording without prior consent.
Workshop Cancellation
If we cancel a workshop, you’ll be notified as soon as possible. You may enroll in another workshop or receive a full refund. We are not responsible for travel, lodging, or other losses due to cancellation.
Force Majeure
The organizers are not liable for cancellations or disruptions due to events beyond their control, such as natural disasters or pandemics.
Liability Waiver
By participating, you agree that the organizers are not liable for any injury, damage, loss, or delay. Your purchase releases them from all responsibility.
Code of Conduct
Participants are expected to behave respectfully and professionally during the workshop, both towards fellow participants and towards the studio space.
By purchasing and participating in this in-person workshop you acknowledge and agree to all of the above Terms and Conditions.
ONLINE
For the online workshop, you will need to bring your own materials and tools:
5 kg of clay with high grog
A knife, needle, metal kidney, serrated kidney, surform, banding wheel (or two bowls), and a hairdryer/heat-gun.
For images or more information about any of the required tools, feel free to email info@karinasmagulova.com.
You will be responsible for arranging the firing of your Woman Vessel after the workshop.
Cancellation Policy
Please note that all online workshop purchases are non-refundable and non-exchangeable.
Each purchase is intended for a unique participant. As such, sharing or distributing recordings is strictly prohibited. By participating, you agree to these legal obligations.
Health and Safety
You must ensure you have a safe and suitable space to work during the workshop. Please take care when using the required tools.
You participate at your own risk.
Technical Requirements
Zoom Access
To participate live, you’ll need access to Zoom and a reliable internet connection. We recommend testing your setup before the first session to ensure a smooth experience.
Media Release
This workshop will be recorded for internal and commercial purposes. By attending this workshop you are accepting these terms.
By participating in the workshop, you agree that the organizers are not responsible for any injury, damage, loss, or delay. Your participation releases them from all liability.
We ask all participants to behave professionally and respectfully throughout the workshop. Any disruptive behavior may result in exclusion from the workshop without refund.
Workshop Cancellation
If the workshop is canceled for any reason, you will be notified promptly. You will have the option to enroll in another session or receive a full refund. The organizers are not responsible for any travel, lodging, or other associated costs.
IN ATHENS SEP 4-7 2025
All materials and tools will be provided — all you need to bring is yourself and a willingness to explore.
Firing is not included as part of the Athens immersion. This is an intentional decision to focus on the process, gesture, and form, rather than the final fired outcome. However, if you wish to make independent arrangements to fire and/or ship your work, we can offer guidance on the final day of the workshop.
Please note that should you choose to proceed with firing and shipping, this will be handled on a case-by-case basis and priced accordingly.
Cancellation Policy
To support the flow of the studio and honour the energy invested in planning and preparation, bookings are non-refundable and dates are fixed. Unfortunately, it is not possible to reschedule or transfer missed sessions.
Health & Safety
Participants must disclose any medical conditions, injuries, or allergies that may impact their experience. You participate at your own risk and are encouraged to tune in to your personal limits and physical wellbeing throughout the workshop.
Travel & Accommodation
Participants are responsible for organising their own travel and accommodation. The organizers are not liable for any associated bookings or changes.
Materials
All working materials are included.
Insurance
We recommend participants have personal or travel insurance that covers accidents, cancellations, or losses during their time in Athens.
Media Release
By enrolling, you consent to being photographed or recorded during the workshop, with the understanding that your image or voice may be used in future promotional materials. No compensation will be offered for this use.
Photography Policy
You are warmly encouraged to document your own experience for personal use. Commercial photography, filming, or use of equipment beyond handheld devices is not permitted without prior approval.
Workshop Cancellation
In the unlikely event that the workshop is cancelled by the host, you will be offered a full refund or the option to transfer to a future date. We are not responsible for any costs incurred for travel or accommodation.
Force Majeure
The organizers are not liable for cancellations or disruptions caused by events beyond their control, including but not limited to natural disasters, strikes, illness, or pandemics.
Liability Waiver
By participating in this workshop, you agree to release the organizers and venue from any liability for injury, loss, or damage incurred during the experience.
Code of Conduct
All participants are expected to approach the workshop with kindness, openness, and respect — towards fellow attendees, the studio, and the work. A shared atmosphere of calm and curiosity is essential to the immersive nature of this experience.
By enrolling in this in-person workshop, you confirm that you have read and agreed to all the above Terms and Conditions.