Gdynia, a city with a maritime character, is also home to three unique ceramic studios that cultivate pottery traditions while bringing a fresh approach to this ancient art.

YARN BOWL ceramics studio on Swietojanska Street is a place that delights from the threshold. The name of the studio refers to the special bowls for knitters and crocheters, which are one of the hallmarks of the place. The atelier was born out of a passion for clay and creating utilitarian objects that combine functionality with beauty. Workshops are conducted in small groups, which guarantees individual attention to each participant. Particularly popular are the classes for beginners, during which you can learn basic techniques of turning on the potter's wheel and hand forming clay.

Interestingly, YARN BOWL draws inspiration from traditional Pomeranian ceramic patterns, which were characteristic of the region as early as the 17th century. The owner of the studio, fascinated by her local heritage, recreates some of these patterns, giving them a contemporary touch. The atelier also sells finished products, which impress with their simplicity and elegance.

Just a few steps away, also on Swietojanska Street, is Malibee - a ceramics gallery workshop. This place is distinguished by its unusual atmosphere, which encourages creativity and experimentation. Malibee workshop is not only a workshop space, but also a gallery where you can admire and purchase works by local artists. Workshops are conducted for both adults and children, and each participant can expect expert help and inspiration.

Malibee is famous for its themed workshops, which are organized in connection with different holidays and seasons. Especially popular are the Christmas classes, during which participants create ceramic ornaments and gifts. The workshop also cultivates the old Pomeranian tradition of creating ceramic figurines of sea animals, which, according to local legends, were supposed to bring luck to fishermen. These small works of art, inspired by Baltic tales, are unique souvenirs from the Tricity.

The third of Gdynia's gems is Gliniarze Pracownia Ceramiki on Morska Street. This place has a unique industrial character, which contrasts with the delicacy of the items created here. The studio is housed in a former industrial building, which adds to its raw charm. The clay makers specialize in functional ceramics with a minimalist design, but there is also plenty of room for artistic experimentation.

Workshops at Clay Makers are led by experienced ceramists who are passionate about sharing their knowledge. The place is particularly appreciated for its professional approach and high quality materials. Workshop participants are provided with various types of clay, glazes and tools, which allows them to realize even the most demanding projects. Interestingly, the atelier also organizes workshops inspired by archaeological finds from the Pomeranian region, during which it is possible to create replicas of vessels used by the former inhabitants of these lands.

Gdansk, a city with a rich history of commerce and craftsmanship, continues handicraft traditions in a modern way. Two unique ceramic studios in the city offer workshops that combine respect for ancient techniques with an innovative approach to the art.

Terra Sol - Ceramics and Handicrafts Studio on Leon Droszynski Street is a place whose very name alludes to the basic elements of ceramics - earth and sun (or fire). The studio is located in a cozy, bright premises, where the atmosphere is conducive to creativity and concentration. Terra Sol is distinguished by its holistic approach to ceramics, treating it not only as a craft, but also as a form of therapy and meditation.

Workshops at Terra Sol are led by ceramists with years of experience, who emphasize the creative process and the joy of interacting with clay. Particularly popular are intuitive ceramics classes, during which participants learn to listen to their emotions and pour them into the objects they create. The studio also organizes workshops inspired by local Kashubian folklore, during which one can learn about patterns and motifs characteristic of the region.

Interestingly, Terra Sol cultivates the old Gdansk tradition of creating ceramic tiles that decorated the townhouses of the Hanseatic city back in the Middle Ages. During special workshops, you can learn how to create such tiles using traditional techniques and patterns. The studio also cooperates with local archaeologists, who provide inspiration based on finds from excavations conducted in the city.

The second Gdansk gem is Better Ceramics, located on Artur Grottger Street. This small, but full of character studio was founded by ceramics enthusiasts who decided to share their knowledge and love for clay. The name 'Better' has a double meaning - it alludes both to clay-pouring and to constantly improving one's skills.

The Better Ceramics Studio specializes in small, intimate workshops, where each participant can count on individual attention and support. The place is especially appreciated for its friendly atmosphere, which makes even people without any experience feel comfortable. Thematic workshops organized by the studio often refer to the history of Gdansk and its maritime character.

A unique aspect of Better Ceramics is the use of local raw materials. The studio experiments with clays mined in the Pomeranian region, which gives the items created here a unique character. During the workshop, participants can learn about the properties of different types of clay and how they affect the final result of the work.

Legend has it that in the vicinity of Gdansk there is a special type of clay, which, according to ancient potters, had magical properties - objects made from it were never supposed to break. Although this is of course only a myth, the Better Ceramics studio refers to this story by organizing 'Indestructible Ceramics' workshops, during which participants learn techniques to increase the durability of the objects created.

Choosing the right ceramics studio depends on individual preferences, level of expertise and expectations. Let's compare the five places described earlier to help you decide.

In terms of location, the studios in Gdynia - YARN BOWL and Malibee - are located on the same Swietojanska Street, making them easily accessible for those wishing to visit several places in one day. The cops are located a bit further away, on Morska Street, but still in the center of Gdynia. In Gdansk, the studios are more dispersed - Terra Sol is located in the Przymorze district and Better Ceramics in Oliwa, which may require moving between them.

In terms of workshop offerings, each studio has its own specifics. YARN BOWL focuses on functional ceramics and traditional wheel-turning techniques, making it ideal for those interested in creating functional objects. Malibee offers a wider range of workshops, including themed classes related to the seasons and holidays, which may attract those looking for variety. The clay makers stand out for their professional approach and high quality materials, which more advanced ceramists will appreciate.

In Gdansk, Terra Sol takes a holistic approach to ceramics, combining it with elements of therapy and meditation, which may attract those looking not only to learn the craft, but also for tranquility and self-development. Better Ceramics, on the other hand, specializes in intimate workshops and experimentation with local raw materials, which may interest those who value authenticity and connection to the region.

Prices for workshops at Tri-City ceramic studios vary, but generally fall within a price range described as average. The cheapest are usually one-time introductory workshops, while more expensive are series of classes or specialized workshops. It is worth noting that all studios offer materials in the price of the workshop, which is an important factor when comparing costs.

In terms of atmosphere, YARN BOWL and Terra Sol offer a calm, concentration-promoting environment, while Malibee and Better Ceramics opt for a more casual, social atmosphere. Cops, on the other hand, stand out for the industrial character of the space, which may attract those who appreciate modern design.

All studios offer workshops for both beginners and those with some experience, but differ in their didactic approach. YARN BOWL and Clay Makers focus on a solid technical foundation, Terra Sol focuses on the creative process and expression, Malibee offers plenty of freedom and space for experimentation, and Better Ceramics provides individualized attention in small groups.

A unique aspect of the Tri-City ceramic studios is their connection to local history and traditions. YARN BOWL draws inspiration from Pomeranian ceramic patterns, Malibee draws on legends of sea creatures, Cops organize workshops inspired by archaeological finds, Terra Sol cultivates the tradition of Gdansk tiles, and Better ceramics experiments with local clays.

Also worth noting are the additional attractions offered by the various studios. YARN BOWL and Malibee run stores where finished ceramic products can be purchased. Terra Sol organizes exhibitions of works by workshop participants, and Better Ceramics offers the opportunity to fire your own works brought from home. The clay makers, meanwhile, organize meetings with local artists, which can be an added value for those interested in the broader context of ceramic art.

Regardless of the studio you choose, ceramic workshops in the Tri-Cities are an excellent opportunity to develop creativity, meet new people and create unique objects that can become unique souvenirs of your stay in the region or the beginning of a new passion.