“Judge an artist by her art.
Judge a teacher by her students’ work and the degree of her own commitment to learning.
The best teachers stay a student their whole lives and choose to learn from the best…
This makes them not only better artists and teachers but also more patient and empathic because they are continuously reminded just hard it is to learn new things, especially as adults.”
Ipek completed her foundation studies at RISD, Rhode Island School of Design, in the States and her master’s degree in ceramic design at Staffordshire University in England.
She’s had a thriving art and teaching practice since opening her own practice in 2010 but still continues to invest in her learning by taking workshops from other master potters such as Moon Do Bang (Byung Sik Moon).
Meet Ipek - your teacher, supporter and creative mentor
Ipek is the face behind Clay Studio Leiden. For her, teaching is coming full circle and in many ways, sacred. She loves connecting with ceramic enthusiasts at all levels, especially with those who or curious about or love wheel-throwing and passing on the skills she developed in more than 17 years and helping her students develop a solid technical foundation and reach their goals.
Workshops that leave you feeling inspired and relaxed
Ipek's empathetic and intuitive nature extends seamlessly into her teaching style. Her students appreciate her nurturing approach, technical expertise, passion for great technique, and her extremely clean and organized studio.
In her workshops, you'll find the freedom to express yourself and cultivate your unique style. Ipek provides guidance when needed and gives you space when you're in the zone. She knows exactly when to support and when to challenge her students. You’ll often hear her say:
“Wheel-throwing using porcelain is an amazing teacher which shows us exactly what we have to work on ourselves.
Whether we should let go of perfection, be more gentle on ourselves or more patient, it shows up very quickly in the work.
Most importantly, it teaches us to slow down and listen to our intuition. It’s very meditative too, which is very therapeutic.”
Ipek is always open to discussing your goals and tailoring your experience to ensure it's perfect for what you want to achieve.
Ipek's art journey is quite a tale. From creating pieces for Cartier (watch short film below documenting the process), Christian Liaigre and Barneys New York to even catching the eye of a First Lady, she's been interviewed by prestigious publications like Vogue, Harper’s Bazaar, and more.
Her solo exhibitions have graced cities like New York, Berlin, Bath, Brussels, and Freiburg and her work is in more than 250 private art collections from San Francisco to Sao Paulo.
Her most recent and biggest solo show yet with 50 artworks took place at Pucker Gallery in Boston. Dive into her artistic world on her website.
The Clay Studio Leiden community
Regulars in the studio appreciate Ipek’s nurturing teaching style and how she makes even difficult techniques easy to learn.
The occupations of the participants range from PhD and master’s degree candidates to diplomats, scientists, lawyers, medical doctors, AI experts, epidemiologists, professors, architects, graphic designers, art teachers, artists, psychologists, psychiatrists, cyber defense experts, HR professionals, engineers and retired professionals.
Some of Ipek’s students are locals and some come from the Leiden area, while others live in The Hague, Amsterdam, Delft, Haarlem, Rotterdam, Utrecht and Almere. The community members come from 21 countries in 5 continents!
The Clay Studio Leiden community is a very international group of mainly (but not limited to) very busy, left-brained professionals with highly demanding and analytical jobs that leave very little opportunity in their everyday lives for artistic expression.
They love the meditative atmosphere where there’s always a little jazz playing in the background. The ages of the regular participants range from teenagers to late 60s.
They come to the studio to learn new skills, enjoy a hobby that helps them relax, have fun, engage with their playful and creative sides. They enjoy being in a community of like-minded individuals and the cultural diversity.
Learn ceramics from a professional ceramic artist
Ipek is an internationally acclaimed artist whose work is in museums in Europe and hundreds of private art collections from London to Sydney.
Testimonials of Clay Studio Leiden workshop participants
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"I decided to take private and semi-private courses with Ipek after 2 years of weekly courses (on the wheel) in other studios. There are no words to express how grateful I am that I decided to follow these workshops! I'm looking forward to the rest of our lessons :)"
Ifigeneia from Greece
Structural engineer -
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“. . . The atmosphere of her [Ipek] studio has a relaxing and cozy vibe, setting the perfect tone for an enjoyable workshop. Ipek's profound knowledge, patience, and clear explanations make the sessions accessible and enjoyable. Her artistry is truly inspiring, leaving participants feeling both welcomed and motivated. . . “
Laura from Germany
Systems engineer, European Space Agency -
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"Ipek is not only an expert in the field of pottery but also she is a great mentor with tremendous enthusiasm in teaching. When possible, she also encourages you to go outside of your comfort zone to try and experience new things. I feel very lucky to have found her as my mentor!!"
Masa from Japan
Assay development scientist -
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"Ipek’s passion for her craft is very infectious. I particularly liked that she gives her students so much freedom - Ipek does not impose her choices onto us. I loved the ambience of the studio, and how I could spend three whole hours there completely at peace and not realizing time had passed."
Karina from Malaysia
Epidemiologist -
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"A joyful experience! Ipek is not only a wonderful teacher but also lovely person and welcoming host. She explains the medium and process clearly while encouraging you to create something unique and personal. Highly recommended if you want to try something creative. A joy to be able to learn from a talented artist and a kind human being."
Ariadne from England
AI developer, RetInSight -
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"I was able to learn so much in just my first class! What I especially loved was that Ipek has a contagious enthusiasm and encourages her students to explore and be creative. She is not only an expert in her craft but also a fantastic teacher! In addition, she is a very kind and compassionate person, which made the lesson a joy to attend."
Calvin from the Netherlands
Business analyst, ABN AMRO
Ready to start learning from Ipek but still have questions?
Book a call with Ipek so she can help you with your goals and options.