Consultations & Mentoring

Olivera Klikovac

Ceramics is a journey that teaches us patience, dedication, and an appreciation for nuance.

After more than ten years in the world of ceramics — through my own Bachelor’s and Master’s studies, preparing future students for university entrance exams, helping others develop their brands and businesses, teaching hobbyists in a ceramics school, and building my own ceramic brand over the past six years — education and the wholehearted sharing of knowledge still hold a special place in my work.

Today, however, my approach differs from what is commonly offered by ceramics schools. Instead of group courses and workshops, I choose to work exclusively one-on-one, allowing me to dedicate my full attention to each individual.

Over the years, I have come to realize that success in ceramics depends on three things: good mentorship, tons of clay passing through your hands, and enough motivation to survive every crack, pinhole, glaze run, warp, or unexpected surprise that this material inevitably brings. And perhaps that is exactly why ceramics never becomes boring.

Every piece depends on subtle details — and it is precisely in those details that I can help.

My work is focused on solving the specific challenges you encounter in your ceramic practice. Whether it involves clay preparation, wheel throwing, hand-building, firing, glazing, ceramic technology, or something entirely different, my goal is to help identify the root of the problem and find a path toward a solution.

One student struggled for a long time to understand why pinholes kept appearing in her clay body. Another spent months trying to master centering on the wheel, when a small adjustment in posture was all it took for months of effort to finally pay off. A third wanted to understand what happens behind the closed kiln door — firing schedules, heating curves, and all the aspects of the process that are often overlooked during basic training.

I believe that almost every problem can be understood when we observe it carefully enough. Sometimes the cause lies in body position and the way force is applied to the clay. Sometimes it is the consistency of the clay or glaze. Sometimes it is firing. And sometimes it is something entirely unexpected.

Beyond technical knowledge, clay often reveals a great deal about ourselves. This is why working with clay is increasingly recognized as a form of creative and therapeutic practice — one that helps us slow down, develop focus, accept mistakes, and build a deeper connection with our own creativity.

I am here to observe, understand, and share the knowledge I have gained through years of experience. Every session is an opportunity for your next step forward, whether you are a hobbyist, a passionate ceramic enthusiast, or a professional maker.

The ways I most often work with students and makers are:

One-Hour Individual Consultations

  • In person or online
  • Duration: 60 minutes
  • Fee: €50

Individual Studio Sessions

  • Practical work and mentoring
  • Duration: 2–3.5 hours
  • Fee: €60 per session

When I say “up to 3.5 hours,” I truly mean it. Sometimes we work for two hours, sometimes for three and a half. It all depends on the topic, the challenges we are addressing, and the energy we bring to the session.

My priority is not watching the clock — it is solving the problem.

Woman working with a large ceramic vase outdoors in a forest setting

I do not offer a shortcut to ceramics, because I do not believe one exists. What I offer is experience, thoughtful guidance, and support in identifying what is holding you back, so that you can continue your journey with greater confidence and less trial and error.

If you recognize yourself in this text, I would be delighted to hear from you.

Feel free to send me a message below. I would love to know whether you are already working with ceramics and what you would like to learn or improve in your practice.

I usually begin with a short complimentary consultation where we can discuss your work, the challenges you are facing, and determine what type of support would be most beneficial for you.

 

 

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