Learning at DewEra
Get to know your instructors, how we teach, and which way of working with clay might suit you best.
Meet Your Instructors
Şebnem Aran Kavakli
I have been the main instructor at DewEra Ceramics for nearly three years, teaching regular courses and welcoming hundreds of people to the studio through workshops and classes. My own journey with ceramics started several years before DewEra, giving me time to explore both wheel throwing and handbuilding through continuous practice and experimentation. Over the years, teaching students with very different levels and learning styles has shaped the way I teach today. I focus on strong foundations, individual progress and helping each student gain the confidence to work independently and develop their own way of working with clay.
Alena Metrikina
I’m excited to be a part of DewEra Ceramics as an instructor. In my classes, I focus on helping students build a strong foundation across different ceramic techniques, so they have the skills and confidence to experiment freely and discover what works for them. I like to guide each student individually, adjusting to their pace while encouraging curiosity and independence. Through my own practice and my brand, Metrika, I’ve learned how important experimentation is in developing a personal way of working with clay. As an instructor with years of experience in teaching and making, I hope to give students both the technical foundation and the freedom to gradually find their own style.
Our Approach
We believe in building strong foundations while giving each student the space to explore, experiment and gradually become an independent maker. Our small classes allow us to take a hands-on, personal approach: we follow your progress individually, offer one-to-one guidance throughout the course and adapt the learning process to your needs.
We work with a shared programme and stay closely coordinated, so you can comfortably move between instructors or course rounds while continuing from where you left off. Whether you join for one round to experience pottery or stay with us longer to develop your skills, the programme grows with you — giving you both structure and the freedom to find your own way with clay.
Wheel or Handbuilding?
Wheel Throwing
If you enjoy learning a new skill, challenging yourself and seeing your progress build over time, the wheel might be for you. It takes patience and repetition — even with natural ability, becoming comfortable and independent on the wheel takes time. You can absolutely join for one round to experience it, or continue with us over multiple rounds and develop your skills at your own pace.
Handbuilding
If you are looking for more creative freedom, want to explore your own ideas or simply enjoy slower, calmer time with clay, we recommend hand-building. With fewer technical limitations, you can focus more quickly on form, surface and creating pieces that feel personal to you. It is a great choice whether you want to learn different techniques or simply enjoy the process of making.
Ready to Start?
Explore our upcoming courses and find the one that suits you.