Cost: $800*

Paipai Native Pottery and Indigenous Ceramic Traditions Workshop with Daria Mariscal, Paipai tribal member and Native Master Potter of Santa Catarina, B.C., Mexico

We invite you to a special pottery workshop with Daria Mariscal, Paipai tribal member and Native Master Potter of Santa Catarina, B.C., Mexico. The Paipai are the only native people in Baja California who still produce pottery in the traditional way, without the use of a potter’s wheel or kiln. Daria produces beautiful and functional works of art that help sustain her people. Through her labor and dedication young tribal members learn their culture and history. She enjoys sharing her knowledge and teaching these skills to others.

During this memorable week, you’ll learn native pottery techniques, make your own hand-built pottery, enjoy horseback riding, take an optional hike, taste a quality tequila flight, join us for wine tasting, and savor healthy and delicious homemade Mexican food!

Pottery made by beginners with Daria’s guidance

The Process:

To produce Paipai clay vessels, native clay is dug from natural deposits on their reservation land. The pots, or “ollas”, are created by hand using traditional coil methods, made strong and durable with the “paddle and anvil” method. When nearly dry, they are burnished with a smooth stone that compresses, strengthens, and smoothes the surface to a satin finish.

With minimal processing, this native clay can withstand the thermal shock of a traditional pit firing which uses cow dung or yucca stalks as fuel. Hot spots and uneven pit temperatures during the firing process create unique flame patterns on the ceramic surface, a hallmark of traditional native pottery.

Accommodation Style:

You can expect to share a comfortable cabin accommodation with private bathroom, double occupancy. We’ll be staying at a privately owned, 2,800 acre ranch. Lighting is by candles and solar powered lamps. Cell phone/camera chargers are available. This is a working horse ranch; no daily housekeeping is available. Your room is your private space.

*Cost includes:

5 days professional workshop instruction, production of 3-4 pot/objects to take home
4 nights lodging
All transportation in Mexico
All meals – healthy and homemade
Horseback riding – basic fitness required
Tequila tasting
A trip to Valle de Guadalupe, wine tastings/purchases are paid on your own

Workshop size is limited to provide individual attention and instruction.

Payment Terms:

Deposit: To secure your spot on this trip, a 50% deposit is due May 25. Since we are booking the entire ranch property for your stay, your deposit is non-refundable after August 1st. Payment can be made by check or Paypal. To pay by check, contact Ellen Parry at bajaranchoart@gmail.com.

Balance: Final payment is due July 1st.