Process Ceramics Retreats
Finding healing, strength, and empowerment through creation.
Words by Abby L. Johnson
The seedling that sparked the growth of Process.Ceramics, a guided retreat program focused primarily on working with wild clay, was planted when founder and creator Jessica VanNess discovered her love of pottery at the tender age of 10.
“There was something about my hands moving around, over, through the clay – molding it, feeling it, seeing how it responded to me, that was novel. It grounded me instantly,” Jessica explains. Spurred on by this formative experience, she went on to incorporate ceramic practice into adulthood. But just recently, this personal practice blossomed into a full-fledged mission to share the healing properties of working with clay when she had an experience that further embedded ceramics into her life.
“For many years I’d go to my ceramic practice to reconnect and center myself, but it wasn’t until around five years ago, after a series of traumatic events, that I set out upon a deep healing journey culminating in a trip to the desert of Utah to learn ancient ceramic techniques from a primitive potter,” says Jessica. This fulfilling experience renewed her love of working with clay and made it abundantly clear to her that the power of this work was meant to be shared. Thus, Process.Ceramics was born with the intention of bringing the unique benefits of this medium to light in an unforgettable experience.
Jessica shares that Process.Ceramics retreat incorporates “personal growth exercises, ancient ceramic techniques, meditation, yoga, nourishing whole meals, and time in nature as we reconnect with our true selves and our innate power and purpose in the world.” The next Process.Ceramic retreat will take place in Spicewood along the banks of Lake Travis. Over the course of four days and three nights (May 27-30), the women only retreat attendees will learn how to create their own clay vessels, and more than that, they will be guided through a personal growth experience via the creative process. Jessica adds, “My hope is for attendees to take away a sensation of freedom by attuning to their authentic selves and leave with the ability to see their lives in a way that is in alignment with what truly brings them joy, peace, and wholeness.”
Do you know a local woman who would benefit from this healing experience?
Process.Ceramics is giving away a spot at the spring retreat free of charge to one inspiring woman. Fill out the form below to nominate a mentor, loved one, friend, etc. and follow @process.ceramics for updates on the winner.
