Tiny Island Experiences
Private Pottery Workshops on the Wild North Coast of
São Miguel ⸱ Azores
Made by you in São Miguel
Bem-vindos! Welcome to MATÉRIA PRIMA Atelier de Cerâmica, a tiny ceramics studio on a tiny volcanic island in the middle of the vast ocean.
We invite you to join us for one of our private pottery workshops and create your own ceramic piece under the close guidance of ceramic artist Rinat Burg, founder and owner of the studio. All workshops are taught in English and suitable for complete beginners as well as curious creatives.
Tiny island experiences are a chance to slow down and connect with the Azores on a more tactile level. Whether you're looking for a memorable couples' activity, a creative afternoon, or a weather-proof activity during your stay, you'll spend three relaxing hours working with clay and making something truly your own.
Your finished pieces will be professionally glazed and twice fired in our kiln before being carefully shipped to your home worldwide - a handmade reminder of your time on our tiny island.
Visit the Learn page to explore our workshops and book directly for the best availability and rates.
On São Miguel's North Coast
MATÉRIA PRIMA is located in a beautiful quinta on the wild north coast of São Miguel, just a short drive from Ponta Delgada. Away from the busiest tourist areas, the studio offers visitors the chance to discover a quieter side of the Azores while creating something meaningful with their own two hands.
Pottery for Beginners
No previous pottery experience is required. Our private pottery workshops in São Miguel are designed to be welcoming, accessible, and deeply rewarding for complete beginners. Under the close guidance of ceramic artist Rinat Burg, you'll be supported step by step as you learn, experiment, and create with clay.
Slow Down & Create
Each workshop lasts three unhurried hours, giving you time to step away from a busy travel schedule and immerse yourself in the creative process. Working with clay offers a rare opportunity to slow down, focus on the present moment, and experience the Azores from a different perspective.
Workshops in English
All workshops are hands-on, conducted entirely in English and welcome visitors from around the world. With personal guidance throughout the session, you'll feel comfortable and supported regardless of your previous experience with ceramics.
Rain or Shine
The weather on São Miguel is famously unpredictable, but creativity isn’t. If you are looking for the perfect indoor or rainy-day activity in São Miguel, our workshops offer a unique Azores experience you can plan with confidence, running year-round in a comfortable studio environment.
Create an Azorean Souvenir
Every participant creates their own ceramic pieces during the workshop. After glazing and two kiln firings, your work is carefully packaged and shipped directly to your home anywhere in the world - a handmade reminder of your time on our tiny island.
Private by Design
To preserve the intimate atmosphere of the studio, all workshops are private. Whether you're visiting as a couple, a family, or a small group of friends, you'll enjoy a personal and relaxed experience tailored to your pace and interests.
