ESRA SAKIR: SCULPTING THE FIGURE WITH FORAGED CLAY

Esra Sakir is a Dutch sculptor of Turkish origin whose work bridges contemporary art with deep cultural and ecological engagement. Born in Isparta, Turkey, and raised in Izmir and Istanbul, Sakir began her art studies at age 11, apprenticing with various professional artists. At 18, she moved to Milan to study at the Brera Academy, earning her Bachelor's degree in 1996. She later completed a Master's in Fine Arts at the Hogeschool voor de Kunsten in Utrecht. Sakir's artistic practice explores themes of environmental justice, human rights, gender equality, and cultural identity, often drawing inspiration from the archaeological heritage of Anatolia, Egypt, Mesopotamia, and Southern Europe, particularly Sicily.

About Ezra's Sculpture Worshop

Dig deep into Sicily’s earth and uncover your own creative voice. Sculptor Esra Sakir takes you on a hands-on journey that begins with collecting wild clay from the island’s rich volcanic landscapes. Learn how to prepare and transform this raw, ancient material into personal works of art, guided by cultural history, myth, and place. This workshop is more than sculpture—it’s an immersion in the earth itself, where creativity, heritage, and ecology meet in your hands. In this workshop, participants will delve into the historical female divine iconography of Mediterranean civilizations, followed by basic drawing exercises. The journey continues with creating small objects using commercial clay, progressing to collecting wild clay from the surrounding Sicilian landscape. Participants will learn to treat and prepare this locally sourced material to craft their pieces. A field visit to a local archaeological site or museum, such as the island of Mozia—a Phoenician settlement in the Stagnone Lagoon—offers cultural and artistic context, with on-site drawing exercises and a short talk and demonstration to help translate inspiration into form. The workshop culminates with the creation of final pieces, followed by a group reflection and evaluation of the work and the overall creative journey, connecting participants deeply to both their personal expression and the rich cultural and geological heritage of Sicily.

What to Expect From Your Week with Esra

An itinerary with dates and times and site visits will be sent to you prior to the event. Here is what you can expects overall.

• On arrival day, there will be a late afternoon Orientation and Welcome Dinner.

• Daily studio work and wild clay harvesting explorations allowing you to experience Sicily's magnificent Mediterranean landscapes and storied archeological sites.

• A farewell "thank you" event at a local winery on final day.

• Most meals are included, breakfast, lunch & dinner (except on Wednesdays when the hotel's restaurant is closed).

• Transporation to and from Palermo (PMO) airport See our pickup policy

• Materials needed for the workshop: Clay and basic clay-working tools are provided.   

•  Car rental is not necessary but recommended if you'd like to explore the area after class.

Included In The Workshop

Hotel Baglio Custera, a boutique hotel in the heart of Marsala's countryside, renowned for its gardens, incredible views, and luxurious atmosphere. All rooms are private with en-suite bathrooms.

Cuisine

Sicily's culinary scene is a feast for the senses! Our cooks source the freshest, locally grown produce to create mouth-watering dishes that will tantalize your taste buds. Indulge in the rich flavors of the region, and savor the taste of true Sicilian cuisine.

Transportation

Shuttle service to and from the airport and to all excursions is included.

How to Register

EARLY BIRD DISCOUNTS EXTENDED!

The cost of this workshop os $3800. Our Earlybird pricing takes $400 off the cost, making your total price $3400. Earlybird discount pricing has been extended until September 7, 2025.

Make your initial deposit of $500, saving your seat and securing your Earlybird price. Second and third deposits will be sent within the first and second months of your initial deposit. Total payment will be complete within three months.

We welcome your non-painting travel partners for an additional fee of $1250. Non-painting guests share your room, are included in meals, and are welcome to site visits where space allows. Special itineraries can be arranged for them through the hotel.

Early bird discounted ticket cost $3400

• Initial Deposit: $500 [by 9/7/25]

• Second Deposit: $1450 [by 10/1/25 ]

• Third Deposit: $1450 [by 11/1/25]

• Non-Painting Partners are welcome: $1250