We have long been fans of Indoestri Makerspace, following their journey through their inspiring Instagram feed. Indoestri’s desire to nurture and develop an individuals’ creativity (regardless of age or ability) is a value that resonates with ajb. Therefore, when Indoestri approached us to collaborate in a ‘Pottery for Kids’ workshop, how could we resist?

The workshop was being conducted by the talented Ayu Larasati (whose ceramics we love & possess and whose story is also featured in ajb), with each participant creating their own bespoke animal bowl. The only catch? The workshop was for children, which meant that Liz and I were not officially meant to get our hands dirty (… well, we would see about that..!)

So on a recent balmy Saturday, Liz and I ventured to Indoestri’s workshop in West Jakarta. We were accompanied by a small gaggle of extras including our ajb artist for the day, Tom (my son), as well as our eldest daughters (who would somehow manage to get their hands on the clay too!) Liz was officially photographer and I was Tom’s ‘helper’ (strategically positioned to be able to get in on the action!) 

As the day unfolded...

Eager to get their hands on the action, the children first required some instruction from Ayu...

...So what better way than to show the children an example of what they were to make.

Step 1: Roll out the clay and gently place over mould

Step 2: Attach the legs. The children learnt the meaning of terminology such as 'slip' and 'score', and could appreciate that clay appendages such as animal legs and tails could not simply be squashed onto a body.

Final step: Secure the head and allow to 'bone dry'... Over to you kids!

Tom at the ready. The plastic bag contained the clay which would become Tom's own masterpiece

Tom works with the clay, kneading it to remove air bubbles. It required more effort than he anticipated

Rolling out the clay to the thickness of the timber lengths, located either side of the clay

Once the clay had been placed over the mould, Tom used a special tool to carefully trim the excess clay from the bowl's rim

Having attached the legs, Tom then smoothed over the surfaces and repaired any cracks. The process required patience and sustained concentration

Next?... the head. Having decided that he would like to make a rhinoceros, Tom and I then worked together to establish the shape and proportions of the head. (Yes, I did manage to get my hands dirty too - it was great fun!)

Being creative together is such a lovely experience

When the time was right, Tom inverted his rhino, secured its head and put the finishing touches on him (like a tail!)

Tom then applied a blue tint to Mr Rhino and allowed him to 'bone dry'

After a few weeks, Mr Rhino was ready to collect from the Indoestri workshop. The wait was worth it... Mr Rhino is gorgeous and Tom is so proud of his creation

Tom’s verdict?
'I was a little bit nervous before we arrived because I didn't know the other people but once I  saw everyone I wasn't nervous anymore. Ayu was nice and kind and happy. I enjoyed making my rhino out of clay which felt smushy. I liked it a lot and when my rhino was finished, I felt proud of what I had made'.

ajb verdict? 

As teachers, Liz and I identified many opportunities for the participant to learn through involvement in this workshop. Some skills being developed included listening and following instructions, cooperation with others, socialising with adults and children alike, using one's imagination, communicating one's needs, development of fine motor skills and problem solving - all packaged up in a bundle of fun!The day was a huge success and the masterpieces made by each child are a wonderful keepsake and reminder of each child's creativity. 

What is Indoestri Makerspace?

Indoestri provides the resources, education and community for creative minds to make, invent, prototype and explore without boundaries. Their daily classes have the potential to enhance a growing career or satiate a long time desire to start a new skill. Indoestri hosts a variety of classes covering topics such as CAD, design, wood working, metal working, 3D printing, laser work, business, jewellery making, drawing and much more.

Interested in enrolling in a class for yourself or someone else?

Indoestri Makerspace
Jalan Lingkar Luar Barat No. 36
Jakarta Barat 11750
T: +62 215415510
Instagram: Indoestri Makerspace

 Words: Jo Stevens   Photography: a journey bespoke