Clay and Sip Class

The Art Department is running a Clay and Sip class at 133 King Street in Newcastle, with the next session on Friday 28 August. It's a hand-building pottery class led by professional potters, so you're working with clay by hand rather than on a wheel. The whole thing is built around the idea of combining art with socialising, and it's open to everyone from complete beginners to experienced artists, so you don't need any prior experience to jump in.

The studio provides the tools and an apron, but you bring your own drinks and snacks to keep you going while you work. They keep a playlist running in the background to set the mood, and once you've finished your piece, the studio takes care of the firing for you, so it'll be ready to collect later.

If Friday 28 August doesn't suit, there are plenty of other dates to choose from. The class runs on weekends throughout the rest of the year: 29 and 30 August; 4-6, 11-13, 18-20 and 25-27 September; 2-4, 9-11, 16-18, 23-25 and 30-31 October; 1-6, 13-15, 20-22 and 27-29 November; and 4-6, 11-13 and 18-20 December. It's a regular fixture, so you can pick a date that works for you and a few mates.

Tickets are between A$125 and A$133, and you'll find the full calendar of dates at The Art Department, 133 King Street, Newcastle NSW 2300.