Let There Be Lamp II: The Bright Idea with Jess Aylsworth (3 Day)
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LET THERE BE LAMP II: THE BRIGHT IDEA
June 12-14, 2026 from 10:00am–5:00pm
Ceramic artist and instructor Jess Aylsworth leads this playful, design-forward three-day intensive focused on building sculptural, fully functional ceramic lamp bases.
About the Workshop
Last summer’s Let There Be LAMP surprised everyone—not just in popularity, but in how fully participants leaned in. Forms were bold, unexpected, and deeply personal—each one a balance of function and expression.
This second iteration returns with a sculptural focus.
Participants will design and build structurally sound lamp bases using slab and sculptural construction techniques, exploring proportion, balance, and stability from the ground up. The workshop invites a wide range of expression: from clean and minimal to wonderfully strange, from quietly refined to boldly declarative. There is no “right” aesthetic—only intentional form supported by strong structure.
The process begins with a literal light bulb moment. Participants are introduced to how bulb shape, filament style, scale, and colour temperature influence the overall presence of a lamp. Light becomes part of the design language—the lamp is not just an object, but an illuminated form.
Jess is known for helping students who feel they “aren’t creative” find their way into making. Through thoughtful prompts, humour, and a supportive studio environment, she creates space for risk-taking while maintaining technical clarity.
A Glazy Day supports surface development helping participants bring their pieces fully to life.
Workshop Schedule
DAY 1 — Friday | 10:00am–2:00pm
Introduction to lamp design, structure, and lighting considerations. Demonstrations focus on planning and beginning construction.
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Overview of lamp design and structural requirements
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Introduction to bulb types, scale, and light as part of form
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Begin building foundational structures
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Independent Practice from 2:00–5:00pm
DAY 2 — Saturday | 10:00am–2:00pm
Developing form, refining proportions, and advancing construction.
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Continued building and structural refinement
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Troubleshooting balance and stability
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Instructor feedback and supported work time
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Independent Practice from 2:00–5:00pm
DAY 3 — Sunday | 10:00am–2:00pm
Final construction, detailing, and preparation for surface and firing.
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Refining forms and resolving transitions
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Preparing pieces for drying and firing
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Final supported work time and cleanup
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Independent Practice from 2:00–5:00pm
INCLUDED:
- The piece will be bisque fired and ready for pick-up in 3-4 weeks.
- Attendance to one of our Glazy Day Classes, please let us know which date works for you. (Aug 7, 21, Sep 18)
- 1 10kg bag of clay of your choice, additional clay can be purchased
- Basic lamp hardware recommendations and guidance will be provided.
Ideal Participants
This workshop is open to all levels, including beginners.
It is especially well suited for those interested in functional sculpture, design, and exploring the intersection of form and light. Whether you’re feeling playful, experimental, or precise in your approach, this intensive supports a wide range of creative directions.
If you’re unsure whether this workshop is the right fit, please reach out—we’re happy to help guide you.