Green Pottery in the desert of Tamegroute
(ⵜⴰⵎⵖⵔⵓⵜ ;تامكروت ), Zagora
with Abd al-Haq Dany
Tamegroute Pottery, also known as Tamegroute Green Pottery is a traditional form of ceramic art that originates from the village of Tamegroute in southern Morocco. It is a unique and distinctive style of pottery known for its vibrant green glaze and rustic appearance.
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History and Origins : Tamegroute Pottery has a long history that dates back several centuries. It is believed to have been introduced by potters from the Mesopotamia (Ancient Middle East) who settled in the Tamegroute area during the 14th century. Over time, the local artisans developed their own techniques and unique green glaze.
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Artistic Style : Tamegroute Pottery is characterized by its earthy and rustic appearance. The pottery is handcrafted using traditional techniques and often has an irregular shape. The green glaze, known as "Tamegroute green," is the hallmark of this pottery style. The glaze varies in color, ranging from a light green to a darker, almost blackish shade, with variations and crackling that add to its distinctive charm.
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Production Process : Tamegroute Pottery is made using a mix of locally sourced clay and organic materials. The pottery is shaped by hand or using simple molds, and the pieces are then sun-dried before being fired in traditional kilns. The unique green glaze is achieved through a combination of mineral-rich glazes, copper oxide, and a special firing process.
IMAGES BY ROBIN HOOYBERGS
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Traditional Uses : Historically, Tamegroute Pottery was used for various household items such as bowls, plates, and pitchers. It was also used for the production of mosque lamps, incense burners, and other religious objects. Today, Tamegroute Pottery has expanded to include a wide range of decorative and functional items like vases, lamps, and decorative tiles.
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Cultural Significance : Tamegroute Pottery holds cultural significance in Morocco and is considered an important part of the country's artistic heritage. The pottery reflects the traditions, craftsmanship, and creativity of the local artisans, and it is often associated with Moroccan craftsmanship and interior design.
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Artisan Communities : Tamegroute is a small village located in the Draa River valley, near the Sahara Desert. It is home to a community of skilled potters who have been practicing their craft for generations. The potters in Tamegroute continue to produce pottery using traditional methods, preserving the authenticity and cultural heritage of this art form.
Meet our Genius Abd al-Haq Dany
IMAGES BY ROBIN HOOYBERGS
"My name is Abd al-Haq Dany, and I was born in November 1987 in a small village located in the southeastern region of Morocco, specifically in Tamegroute, a renowned hub for its flourishing green pottery industry. Tamegroute has a rich history and plays a significant geographical role, connecting the southern and western parts of the country. Growing up in a prosperous family, I am proud to have embraced the divine art of clay shaping, a craft passed down from my father when I was just nine years old. Since then, I have honed my skills, creating intricate geometric forms and experimenting with a myriad of colors such as green, yellow, red, white, black, and blue.
Our factory is a haven where seven families have devoted themselves to this cherished art for over seven centuries. Inside the factory, the rooms are constructed using mud, palm wood, and reeds, creating a naturally cool atmosphere during the summer months. My workspace is situated within the factory, along the path leading to the mosque, which serves as a soothing backdrop. To find me, one must enter through the factory's gate and locate the blue door of my room.
Thank you for visiting, and a warm welcome to all who venture to Tamegroute village. I am Abdul Haq Dani, and I invite you to experience the heart of our ceramics factory."
- Abd al-Haq Dany
IMAGES BY ROBIN HOOYBERGS
3 day Pottery
Workshop
Our Workshops
Join us for a transformative 3-day Pottery Workshop, where you'll immerse yourself in the art of pottery while enjoying comfortable accommodations. Throughout the workshop, you'll be treated to delicious breakfast and lunch each day, along with two evenings of dinner in our cozy in-house setting and one unforgettable night in the desert.
The first two days will be spent in the enchanting village of Tamegroute, hosted by the talented artisan Abdul in his family house. Here's a glimpse of what each day holds:
Day 1:
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Visit the pottery factory to gather resources for creating the clay paste and firewood for the pottery oven.
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Learn to differentiate between clay suitable for small items and clay ideal for larger pieces.
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Prepare the clay and remove any impurities through filtering.
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Explore the underground Kasbah, where you'll discover the rich heritage of families from Sub Saharan Africa.
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Delve into the treasures of a library filled with ancient manuscripts on various subjects like mathematics, poetry, astronomy, science, and Koranic scriptures from different Moroccan ethnic groups.
Day 2:
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Begin your hands-on pottery work, dedicating four hours to the craft.
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Eliminate any unwanted wood or stone from the clay by using your feet.
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Shape the clay by hand, forming small piles.
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Receive a demonstration from Abdul himself on how to utilize the pottery wheel.
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Try your hand at using the pottery wheel, under Abdul's expert guidance, to create your desired shapes.
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Engage in several supervised trials to perfect your pottery wheel technique and shape creation.
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Leave your creations to dry overnight.
Day 3:
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Fine-tune any objects that may have imperfections using metal tools, sponges, and water.
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Allow the objects to dry for a week, ensuring their durability.
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Discover the art of glazing, as you explore the process of adding vibrant colors to your creations.
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Visit the pottery oven where your objects will be fired.
Please note that due to the nature of the workshop, you won't have the opportunity to see the final results of your creations during the 3-day experience.
However, you'll have the chance to visit Abdul's studio, where you can admire and even purchase some of his remarkable creations.
Don't miss this incredible opportunity to learn the art of pottery from a master artisan and experience the rich cultural heritage of Tamegroute. Book your spot in the 3-day Pottery Workshop today!
405$ USD
Please note that after entering your e-mail on Paypal you will be prompted the option to pay with you card if you do not have an account OR through PayPal
5 day Pottery
Workshop
Embark on an immersive 5-day Pottery Workshop that promises an unforgettable journey into the world of ceramics. Delight in comfortable accommodations throughout your stay, and indulge in delectable breakfast and lunch each day. Experience the warmth of our in-house dinners for three nights, while also savoring two remarkable evenings under the starry desert sky.
Begin your pottery adventure in the captivating village of Tamegroute, where the first three days will be spent in the welcoming family house of the ingenious artisan, Abdul. Let's explore the highlights of each day:
Day 1
-
Visit a local factory, where you'll gather the essential resources for creating the initial clay paste and the firewood that fuels the pottery oven.
-
Distinguish between clay suitable for crafting small items and clay more suitable for larger pieces.
-
Engage in the meticulous preparation and filtering of the clay, ensuring its quality.
-
Venture into the depths of the underground Kasbah, an enchanting journey into the heritage of Sub Saharan African families.
-
Immerse yourself in a library brimming with ancient manuscripts, showcasing diverse Moroccan ethnic groups' knowledge on subjects like mathematics, poetry, astronomy, science, and Koranic scriptures.
Day 2
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Dedicate four hours each day to hands-on pottery work, starting on this day.
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Use your feet to ensure the clay is free from any wood or stone particles.
-
Skillfully roll the clay by hand into small piles.
-
Receive an initial demonstration from Abdul, unveiling the secrets of the pottery wheel.
-
Begin utilizing the pottery wheel, employing your hands and feet to shape the clay into desired forms.
-
Engage in several guided trials under Abdul's watchful eye, honing your pottery wheel technique and perfecting your creations.
-
Leave your pieces to dry overnight, eagerly anticipating the next steps.
Day 3
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Meticulously refine any objects that may require adjustments using metal tools, sponges, and water.
-
Allow the objects to dry for a week, ensuring their strength and durability.
-
Explore the intriguing world of glazing, experimenting with mixtures to infuse your creations with vibrant colors.
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Witness the pottery oven where your objects will undergo the baking process, enhancing their final form.
Day 4
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Engage in an enlightening workshop focused on pigments and glazes, unraveling the secrets behind these transformative elements.
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Create your own unique pigment paste, adding a personalized touch to your pottery.
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Seize the opportunity to assist in operating the oven and bake one of your cherished creations.
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Participate in the captivating process of fueling the oven with wood, igniting a mesmerizing two-hour fire.
Day 5
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Witness the anticipation build as the ovens are opened, unveiling the results of the baking process.
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Delight in the satisfaction of seeing the final outcomes of your creations.
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Immerse yourself in the art of Henna as you learn to prepare Henna paste.
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Adorn your pottery pieces with intricate Henna designs, adding an exquisite touch.
During this immersive 5-day workshop, you'll have the pleasure of witnessing the final results of 3-4 of your creations, which you can proudly bring back home.
Additionally, you'll have the opportunity to visit Abdul's studio, where you can marvel at his masterpieces and even purchase some of his remarkable creations.
Don't miss this extraordinary journey into the world of pottery and artistic expression. Secure your place in the 5-day Pottery Workshop today!
675$ USD
Please note that after entering your e-mail on Paypal you will be prompted the option to pay with you card if you do not have an account OR through PayPal
7day Pottery
Workshop
Embark on an extraordinary 7-day Pottery Workshop, a transformative journey that combines artistic expression with cultural immersion. Indulge in comfortable accommodations throughout your stay and relish in delectable breakfast and lunch served each day. Experience the culinary delights of in-house dinners for four nights and savor three enchanting evenings under the starlit desert sky.
The first four days of this immersive workshop will be spent in the picturesque village of Tamegroute, where you'll find yourself welcomed into the family house of the brilliant artisan, Abdul. Let's explore the captivating itinerary for each day:
Day 1:
-
Begin your journey with a visit to a local factory, where you'll gather the essential resources for creating the initial clay paste and the firewood necessary for the pottery oven.
-
Learn to distinguish between clay suitable for crafting small items and clay ideal for larger pieces.
-
Engage in the meticulous preparation and filtering of the clay, ensuring its purity.
-
Delve into the depths of the underground Kasbah, where you'll discover the stories of families from Sub Saharan Africa.
-
Immerse yourself in a library brimming with ancient manuscripts, offering insights into diverse Moroccan ethnic groups' knowledge in subjects such as mathematics, poetry, astronomy, science, and Koranic scriptures.
Day 2:
-
Begin your hands-on pottery journey, dedicating four hours each day to this enriching craft.
-
Use your feet to ensure the clay is free from any wood or stone particles.
-
Skillfully roll the clay by hand into small piles.
-
Receive an initial demonstration from the master artisan himself, Abdul, who will guide you in the art of using the pottery wheel.
-
Employ your hands and feet to shape the clay on the pottery wheel, under Abdul's expert supervision.
-
Engage in several guided trials to perfect your pottery wheel technique and create harmonious shapes.
-
Leave your masterpieces to dry overnight, eagerly awaiting the next phase of the process.
Day 3:
-
Meticulously refine and perfect any objects that may require adjustments, using metal tools, sponges, and water.
-
Allow the objects to dry for a week, ensuring their strength and durability.
-
Embark on an exploration of the glazing process, as you experiment with mixtures to infuse vibrant colors into your creations.
-
Visit the pottery oven, where your objects will undergo the transformative baking process, solidifying their final form.
Day 4:
-
Engage in a workshop focused on pigments and glazes, unraveling the secrets behind these transformative elements.
-
Create your own unique pigment paste, adding a personal touch to your pottery creations.
-
Embrace the opportunity to assist in working on the oven, actively participating in the baking process of one of your cherished creations.
-
Experience the captivating process of fueling the oven with wood, igniting a mesmerizing two-hour fire.
Day 5:
-
Witness the highly anticipated moment as the ovens are opened, unveiling the results of the baking process.
-
Revel in the satisfaction of seeing the final outcomes of your pottery creations.
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Embark on an extensive visit with a skilled Henna artist, where you'll spend two days immersed in the artistry and history of Henna.
Day 6:
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Delve into the world of Henna as you learn about the Henna plant's medicinal and beauty purposes.
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Master the art of preparing Henna paste, gaining insights into the traditional techniques.
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Embellish your pottery pieces with intricate Henna designs, adding a touch of elegance.
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Witness the baking of your Henna-adorned plates, culminating in unique and captivating works of art.
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Day 7:
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Unveil your Henna-adorned plates as they emerge from the oven, completing the artistic journey.
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Embark on a visit to the local market, where artisans showcase and sell their vibrant pigments.
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Explore the symbolism and significance behind Henna designs, enriching your understanding of this ancient art form.
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Delight in a mesmerizing Henna body art session with a skilled Henna artist.
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Immerse yourself in the local culture with a visit to the Palmary and interaction with local agriculture farmers.
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Bask in the magical sunset of the desert, accompanied by a traditional music concert, marking the grand finale of your journey.
During this immersive 7-day workshop, you'll have ample time to witness the final results of 4-5 of your pottery creations, along with the captivating Henna-adorned pieces, which you can proudly bring back home. Additionally, you'll have the opportunity to visit Abdul's studio, where you can marvel at his masterpieces and acquire some of his exceptional creations.
Don't miss this extraordinary opportunity to delve into the world of pottery, Henna, and cultural exploration. Secure your place in the 7-day Pottery Workshop today!
925$ USD
Please note that after entering your e-mail on Paypal you will be prompted the option to pay with you card if you do not have an account OR through PayPal
ITINERARY
To travel to Zagora from Marrakesh, you can take the CTM bus company. It is recommended to secure your tickets a day in advance to ensure availability, although same-day purchases are also possible.
The journey from Marrakesh to Zagora takes approximately 7 hours and costs around 150-200 Dirham.
Upon arrival at the Zagora station, you can easily find taxis to Tamegroute, which typically cost about 10-15 euros.
The journey takes around 25 minutes.
For reliable taxi services in Zagora, I recommend contacting Abdel at +212601663258 or +212618812958To ensure trusted drivers.
Address : ZAGORA TAMEGROUTE MAROC Sorties du tamegroute ver m hamid rue 9, 47602, Morocco
It will lead you to a large building that houses several ceramic boutiques. However, Abdul's factory and shop are just a 5-minute walk away,where Abdel typically meets his visitors.
What is included:
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Comfortable and modest accommodation in Tamegroute for the entire duration of your stay.
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Enchanting nights in the desert contingent upon the specific experience chosen.
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Three meals per day provided during your time at the workshop.
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Comprehensive instruction and guidance in the workshop techniques.
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Transportation services arranged for the duration of the experience.
What is not included:
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Flight tickets
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It is mandatory for all attendees to obtain travel insurance encompassing personal injury, medical expenses, loss or damage to luggage, repatriation expenses, and emergency evacuation expenses. The cost typically ranges from $60 to $100 USD
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Transportation outside the scope of the workshop experience
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Personal expenses such as shopping, additional activities, and sightseeing are not included.
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Alcoholic beverages are not provided as part of the package.
Terms, Rules, and Guidelines for Using Our Provided Services: 1. Respect for Cultural and Religious Differences: - We kindly request that you remain aware of and show respect towards cultural and religious differences throughout your experience with us. 2. Basic Workplace Facilities: - Please understand that our workplace is designed to meet basic needs and may not offer luxurious amenities. 3. Involvement of Children: - As part of our cultural practices, children are also involved in our work after school hours. We appreciate your understanding and support in this regard. 4. Care for Borrowed Materials: - We kindly ask that you handle the materials lent to you with utmost care and respect. 5. Damage or Loss of Materials: - Any damage to or loss of materials provided by the artisan will incur charges to cover the replacement or repair costs. 6. Non-Compliance Fee: - Failure to adhere to the aforementioned guidelines, resulting in a complaint filed by the artisan, will incur a fee of $100 per person who violated the rules payed to the artisan at the premises. 7. Respect for the Artisan: - Show deep respect for the artisan and their craft, which has been passed down through eight generations. Acknowledge their dedication and the hard work they have put into their life's passion. 8. Please note that the artisan may offer additional services such as camel rides and food classes, which will be paid directly at the premises. 9. Additional Term and Condition: - If you wish to continue working on pottery after the workshop has officially ended, an hourly charge of $20 will apply for the extra time. Please be aware that neither Indigenius nor the artisan will be held responsible for any damage, loss of personal belongings, or health issues that may occur during your visit. Similarly, transportation to and from the artisan's location is the sole responsibility of the participants. The artisan invests time in preparing for your visit, so please understand that no refunds will be provided in the event of cancellations made by the purchaser. Indigenius does not assume responsibility for any additional transportation arrangements that you may choose to make during your stay, unrelated to the workshop. Exceptions: - In case of the unfortunate event of a death in the family or the illness of the person who purchased the workshop, exceptions can be made with appropriate evidence provided. By agreeing to these terms and conditions, you grant the artisan permission to capture photographs during the workshop with the purpose of promoting his own work, as well as showcasing the overall experience and the work of his students. Our goal is to foster strong relationships with the artisans and create a meaningful connection to their craft. This presents a wonderful opportunity for visitors to experience the same passion and artistry firsthand.