July 12-18, 2026
Learn about the pottery making process with Kyle Bird
Kyle has 12 years of experience as a ceramicist and is excited to share his love and knowledge of ceramics. Through discussions, presentations and hands on activity, participants will learn how clay is transformed into everyday ceramic objects. Participants will get to collect clay, make their own pots to take home, and participate in Kiln building.
Schedule
- Sunday (July 12): Participants arrive in Kampsville
- Monday (July 13):
- Morning- Introduction and creating a simple pot (puki)
- Afternoon- Puki pot decorating
- Tuesday (July 14):
- Morning: Clay harvesting at the creek
- Afternoon: Processing and pinch pot
- Wednesday (July 15)
- Morning: Kiln digging/building
- Afternoon: Coil and scrape pot
- Thursday (July 16)
- Morning: Kiln Firing (pukis)
- Afternoon: Finish coil pots
- Friday (July 17)
- Morning: Surface firing (pinch pots)
- Afternoon: Finish firing and farewell
- Saturday (July 18): Participants depart from Kampsville
Tuition
Tuition is $800 and includes room; all meals Monday breakfast through Friday dinner; supplies, and instruction.
Accommodations
Students stay in one of the CAA’s dormitories while in residence. Dormitories are basic, bunkhouse-style living facilities without TV or internet. Rooms are at minimum double occupancy. The total number of roommates is based on program enrollment, with a maximum occupancy of four. Shower and restroom facilities are provided. Our facilities are approved by the Illinois Department of Public Health, and meet the Illinois Youth Camp Act’s criteria.
Enrollment
Enrollment is open to a maximum of 12 participants age 18+.
To enroll in the workshop, you must download, complete, and return the 2026 Ceramics Workshop Application.
Email applications are preferred. Enrollments are typically processed on Fridays, though not necessarily every Friday.
Once enrolled, we will send you enrollment confirmation by email and a packet of additional information. Separate instructions for payment will be sent by our bookkeeper. You will receive your invoice after your enrollment letter.
If you have not received confirmation, we have not received your application.
Registration closes one week prior to the start date or when the enrollment cap is met.
Questions: If you have any questions, please contact the CAA at education@caa-archeology.org or 618-653-4316 for more information.