THE PHILOSOPHY
A Sanctuany for Artistic Maturity
Our 4-Week and 8-Week Wheel Throwing Programmes are more than just courses; they are structured artist residencies. Situated in the heart of Benaulim, Goa, NISO provides the temporal and spatial freedom required to master technical skills while discovering one's personal creative voice.
"Clay is a mirror. It demands patience, presence, and a surrender to the rhythm of the wheel."
Who This Is For
Aspiring Professionals
For those looking to transition into a career in ceramics or start their own production studio.
Artists & Creatives
Creatives in transition—architects, designers, and visual artists seeking a new medium of expression.
Technical Seekers
Intermediate practitioners who wish to refine their technique and master larger, complex forms.
The Slow Livers
Individuals dedicated to the pursuit of craft as a way of life, valuing process over immediate outcome.
THE NISO STANDARD
Personalized Deep Mentorship
We believe true craftsmanship cannot be taught in large groups. To ensure a high level of instruction, each intensive programme is strictly limited to four participants. This allows for personalized feedback at every stage—from the first wedge of clay to the final firing of the kiln.
1:4 Ratio
Ensuring you never get lost in the noise of a large class.
Dedicated Wheel
Your own station for the entire duration of the residency.
2026 Residency Calendar
February — March
Winter Session I
8-Week Professional Intensive
May — June
Summer Monsoon I
4-Week Foundation Intensive
September — October
Autumn Equinox
8-Week Advanced Portfolio
The Foundation
4-Week Programme
Focus on technical confidence, centering, and mastering functional forms.
INR 69,500 / 100 Hours
- Wedging & Centering Mastery
- Functional Tableware Focus
- Intro to Glazing Theory
The Mastery
8-Week Programme
Advanced technical development, large-scale work, and building a personal voice.
INR 1,29,500 / 200 Hours
- Advanced Hollow Forms
- Kiln Programming & Management
- Portfolio Development
Phase I: The Physical Foundation
The first phase is a rigorous immersion into the mechanics of the wheel. You will spend hours wedging clay to perfection and learning the meditative yet physically demanding art of centering. We move beyond "getting it right" to understanding why clay behaves as it does.
Phase II: Technical Refinement & Glazing
Once the wheel becomes an extension of your hands, we delve into complex forms, trimming, and surface design. You will study glaze chemistry—learning how oxides and minerals interact in the kiln to create the distinctive NISO textures and tones.
The Alchemy of Fire
Included in your residency is a generous firing quota. We use high-fire stoneware clay, fired in our electric and gas kilns to Cone 6 and Cone 10.
4-Week Programme
15 Pieces Fired & Glazed
8-Week Programme
35 Pieces Fired & Glazed
The Application Process
Entry to our intensive programmes is via application only. We look for individuals with a genuine commitment to the craft and a willingness to immerse themselves in a rigorous learning environment.
Email Us
Send your intent to pottery@houseofniso.com
Statement of Purpose
A brief note on why you wish to join NISO and your artistic goals.
Virtual Meet
A short introductory call to ensure our programme aligns with your needs.
Have questions about the programme, studio access, accommodation, or schedules?
View Frequently Asked Questions →Studio Etiquette
Mindful Presence
We practice deep work. Phones and distractions are kept away during wheel sessions.
Collective Care
A clean wheel is a clear mind. Every student is responsible for their station's care.
Zero Waste
We recycle all clay scraps and practice mindful use of water and minerals.