Need an artsy craftsy fix? Or perhaps tile making has always been on your bucket list; or maybe you are on the hunt for a unique gift idea. Well then, look no further than Motawi Tileworks and mark your calendar for Saturday, July 22 for the annual Make-a-Tile & More event from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
This decades-old event is going to be bigger and better than ever and is only the second time that the “& More” activities of the Raku Tile Takeaway and Staff Art Sale have been included. This family-friendly event welcomes art enthusiasts of all ages and about 300 to 600 people are expected to attend throughout the day. However, they recommend children under 13 be accompanied by a chaperone.
Sarah Fuller, retail manager at Motawi Tileworks, said, “This event is all about offering our local community a chance to get their hands dirty and try out tile-making! Motawi Tileworks is celebrating 31 years of business and we are incredibly grateful for the continued support of our art-loving Ann Arbor community.”
The Make-a-Tile workshop
Picture yourself immersed in a world of artistic exploration as you carve your own masterpiece.
“The workshop participant designs the tile themselves, by carving into the 4×4 tile in its wet clay stage with a variety of tools,” Fuller said.
Participants will have the opportunity to work with ceramics-specific implements, stamps, cookie cutters and even pine cones and shells.
It’s a one-of-a-kind experience where your imagination takes center stage, guided by the knowledgeable Motawi staff who are eager to offer tips and support along the way.
You can make up to three tiles, with the first costing $15 and each additional is $20.
The designed tile is left behind for the firing and glazing process which takes about three to four weeks. If unable to pick up, the tile can be shipped for $15 or picked up from the gallery.
Raku Tile Takeaway
But the excitement doesn’t stop there. For the takeaway, you will select and apply a vibrant glaze to a stunning 4×4 Medieval Rabbit tile from Motawi’s signature collection, representing the Year of the Rabbit. Then, brace yourself as your creation undergoes the ancient Japanese Raku firing process. This centuries-old technique results in a stunning mirrored finish. And the best part? You get to take your masterpiece home once it cools down. It’s an opportunity you simply can’t miss, and it’s only $20 per person, with a limit of one tile per guest.
Other options
Now, if you’re unable to make it to the event or if your appetite for Motawi Tileworks is insatiable (and we don’t blame you!), there are more options to satisfy your cravings.
The beloved Friday Factory Tours are back after a three-year hiatus, offering an exclusive behind-the-scenes look at Motawi’s award-winning Ann Arbor studio. Witness firsthand the meticulous craftsmanship that transforms clay into exquisite ceramic tiles, gracing homes and shops nationwide.
Gallery and Boneyard and more
And that’s not all! Motawi Tileworks has reopened its renowned Boneyard, where you can score discounted second-quality tiles. It’s a treasure trove of hidden gems just waiting to find a new home.
The Boneyard operates during the same hours as the Gallery, Tuesday to Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
But wait, there’s more! You can always explore their website and indulge in the beauty of their first-quality tiles and stunning installation tile line.
Not-to-be-missed A2 artistry
Motawi Tileworks is the epitome of artistry thanks to their visionary founder Nawal Motawi. She breathes new life into historical designs, crafting masterpieces that bridge the gap between the past and the present.
Whether you do it yourself or shop the Gallery, Boneyard or Staff Art Sale, you won’t want to miss this opportunity to immerse yourself in the beauty and craftsmanship that Motawi Tileworks represents.
170 Enterprise Dr, Ann Arbor. 734-213-0017.
