Exploring surface techniques with Lesley McInally
Date: Sunday, April 19 2026
Time: 9:30 am - 4:30 pm
Age: 16+
Location: Feldspar Ceramics, 1390 Gerrard St East
About the workshop
Embark on a one day creative journey with renowned ceramic artist Lesley McInally in a focused hands-on workshop exploring captivating surface techniques in clay. Whether you're a novice or an experienced potter, you'll discover an array of methods to enhance your pottery through playful experimentation and artistic expression.
Throughout the workshop, Lesley will demonstrate various techniques using slips, underglazes, chalks, and monoprints to breathe life into your clay creations. Each participant will have the opportunity to apply the demonstrated techniques on small leather hard clay tiles (provided by workshop organizers) and/or a leather-hard piece created by the participant prior to the workshop. From small test slabs to larger pieces of pottery, you'll have the opportunity to apply these techniques and experiment, igniting fresh ideas and inspiration that can translate into both functional and sculptural works of art.
About Lesley
Lesley McInally is a Scottish-born ceramic artist with a deep passion for clay. She earned her Bachelor of Design Honours Degree in Ceramics and Printmaking from Duncan of Jordanstone College of Art & Design at University of Dundee. Early in her career, she managed Pitlochry Pottery in the Scottish Highlands and later created ceramic props for the film industry as well as decorative works for galleries across the UK.
In 2004, Lesley immigrated to Canada and established her studio in Cookstown, Ontario. There, she refined her signature techniques, including stretched slab forms, paperclay methods, handbuilding and expressive surface treatments. Drawing on her background in printmaking, she developed richly tactile surfaces on clay using slips and underglazes.
Committed to sharing her expertise, Lesley has taught at numerous ceramic institutions and mentored emerging artists throughout her career. She later expanded her reach through online workshops, connecting with a global audience. Her work has earned multiple prestigious awards and grants, and she continues to exhibit both nationally and internationally.
A few things to note:
- Participants will be provided with small leather hard tiles for experimenting with the demonstrated techniques.
- Participants also have the option of bringing a leather-hard piece created by them prior to the workshop to the demonstrated techniques on.
- Firing is available for a fee, which will be discussed during the workshop.
- We recommend wearing comfortable clothing and shoes that you don't mind getting clay on.
- Aprons are not provided.
- Minimum age required is 16.
- Workshops are non-refundable.
- There are no partial refunds for missed workshops.
- If registration doesn't reach the minimum number of attendees, we reserve the right to reschedule the workshop.