13th ceramics market in Antibes: two days of masterclasses

On Saturday and Sunday, 29–30 August, the Place des Martyrs de la Résistance in Antibes hosts the 13th ceramics market: 35 professional artisans are presenting their work, and visitors can watch potter’s wheel demonstrations and join masterclasses for children.

Two-day ceramics fair

On the last weekend of August the Place des Martyrs de la Résistance in Antibes turns into a centre of craft art. On Saturday the market is open from 10:00 to 20:00, on Sunday — from 10:00 to 18:00. The event is organised by RAJAC (Résidence Antiboise des Jeunes Artistes Céramistes) — an association of young ceramists from Antibes.

At the fair 35 makers will present a wide range of items: from tableware to sculptures and jewellery. Each will show their own style — from classic utilitarian ceramics to experimental artistic forms. Similar crafts of the French Riviera — not only ceramics, but also the scents and tastes of Provence — are gathered in the piece «Masters of the French Riviera» (Antibes Juan-les-Pins).

Educational programme and interactive activities

The organisers pay special attention to the educational aspect. Information stands about clay-working techniques are set up on the square — hand building, the potter’s wheel, glazing and firing. Professional ceramist Alexander Bodino gives potter’s wheel demonstrations throughout both days, showing how an object is born from a lump of clay.

For children ceramist Liz Calvet will run a modelling masterclass: coil technique, slab work and hand building. Children will take all the items they create home as keepsakes.

Charity initiative

An important part of the event remains the charity project: each participating maker donates one of their pieces to a dedicated stand organised in partnership with the association Terre de Provence. The proceeds will be directed to a fund supporting ceramists who have found themselves in difficult life situations. There is a daily raffle of gift vouchers from market participants.

Practical information for visitors

Entry to the market is free. The event takes place outdoors, so consider the weather and choose comfortable footwear. There are cafés and restaurants near the square — a selection of affordable options in central Antibes can be found in the piece «Five inexpensive places in central Antibes». For those who wish to combine their visit with sightseeing, Antibes offers a rich cultural programme — from Fort Carré to the Musée Picasso.

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Photo: Tahir Xəlfəquliyev / Pexels