Discover the Art of Water Carving with Ryan McKerley
Unlock a unique ceramic technique that mimics the gentle, timeless art of erosion.
Have you ever wanted to carve into clay without a single traditional tool? To create textures that feel ancient, soft, and organically shaped by nature? This September, we are thrilled to host a very special workshop that will teach you how to do just that.
Join us for Water Carving Ceramics: A Workshop with Ryan McKerley, and learn the signature technique of one of Austin’s most esteemed ceramic artists.
Workshop Overview
📅 Date:** Saturday, September 13th
⏰ Time:** 10:00 AM – 1:00 PM
📍 Location:** Sunset Canyon Pottery Studio
5809 Burnet Rd., Austin, TX 78756
Please note:* Our studio isn’t visible from Burnet Rd. We are located directly behind the Austin Pets Alive Thrift store. Look for our signage!
What You’ll Learn & Do
In this immersive three-hour session, Ryan McKerley will guide you through his innovative water carving process. Using paraffin wax and water, you’ll learn to sculpt soft, eroded textures into bone-dry clay—a method that is as mesmerizing as it is beautiful.
The workshop includes:
* A live demonstration from Ryan.
* Two pre-thrown ceramic forms for you to carve.
* The option to bring your own bone-dry pieces to work on.
* Use of all necessary studio tools and materials.
* Firing of all your finished creations, which will be ready for pickup at the studio after the workshop.
About the Artist: Ryan McKerley
Ryan McKerley is a cornerstone of the Austin ceramics community. With a career spanning nearly three decades, he has been making pots in Austin since 1995. He spent a formative decade apprenticing with the legendary Billy Ray Mangham at the Eye of the Dog Art Center, honing a deep respect for process and craftsmanship.
Ryan’s work is profoundly influenced by his signature water carving technique—applying paraffin to dry pots and washing away the surface to mimic natural erosion. This process directly shapes the forms, patterns, and textures that define his elegant, timeless pieces.
Get a preview of his incredible work by following him on Instagram: @ryanmckerley
Workshop Details & Registration
Price: $125 per person
Capacity: Limited to 10 participants to ensure a personalized experience.
Spots are extremely limited for this unique opportunity to learn from a master artisan.
Don’t miss your chance to explore this incredible ceramic technique and create your own one-of-a-kind pieces. We can’t wait to create with you!