Please join us for an intimate and hands-on natural history and ceramics painting class where you will learn how to paint a Gloomy Octopus (Octopus tetricus) with underglazes (ie the “paints” applied under the glaze).

This masterclass is part of our monthly series where a marine biologist/ecologist will be in attendance and in May we will be welcoming Iva Nikolaeva to our Coconut Crab studio.

Iva is a current Honours student at the University of Sydney and spends much of her time in the field at Kioloa, NSW. Her focus lies in studying the ecology of intertidal rocky shores, aiming to unravel how positive interactions between species contribute to the formation of valuable habitats that define these ecosystems.

Through collaboration and drawing inspiration from various established marine conservation projects such as Operation Crayweed, which focuses on restoring lost seaweed habitats, and Living Seawalls, which uses 3D printing to enhance urbanised intertidal shores, Iva’s research aims to extend the practical understanding of the roles valuable habitat-forming species play in intertidal systems. This understanding is crucial for directing targeted conservation efforts aimed at preserving these unique and diverse intertidal marine ecosystems.

The Gloomy Octopus thrives in rocky intertidal shores and rock pools along the Australian coast. Solitary and nocturnal, it’s a vital predator, adept at camouflaging itself through intricate colour-changing abilities, seamlessly blending into its surroundings for efficient hunting. With increasing urbanisation and over-collection of intertidal ecosystem, Iva’s work aims to preserve this vital habitat for this charismatic octopus species.

Participants will be given one of Casa Adams signature medium platters bisqued, with the octopus already monoprinted and ready to be painted. During the class, Araceli will share all the tricks and techniques she has mastered over the 12 years + she has been making and painting ceramics. All materials, as well as a delicious morning tea, are included. The platters will be glazed and fired in the studio and ready for collection approximately one week after. No previous experience needed!

Timings: 9am to 12pm

Location: The class will take place at our brand new studio, designed by award-winning Alexander Symes Architects, in Dulwich Hill, Sydney. The address will be given to confirmed participants closer to the date

***If you’d like to paint the octopus on a dinner plate instead, there is an additional charge of $25. Just add this class to your cart and then add Dinner plate option for painting class to your cart as well.***