Episode 6: The Flow & Feel
This episode and module explores how to design the flow and feel of a workshop. You'll see how I structure my schedule with intentional openings and closings, create rhythm through pacing and transitions, and translate my desired atmosphere into practical setup choices. I’ll cover demonstration timing, balancing structure with creative exploration, and using sensory elements like music, lighting, and materials to shape the experience I want participants to have.
“As a host, you can help your guests think about what they would like to take with them as they go back into the world, given what they have experienced with you.”
- Priya Parker, The Art of Gathering
Here’s the RSS link if you want to add the podcast to your player of choice (or at least those that let you): https://sunfishstudioceramics.ca/wondrous-workshops-episodes?format=rss
Reflection Questions
What energy and atmosphere do you want participants to feel when they first arrive at your workshop? How might you create that feeling through your opening activities, space setup, and sensory choices?
Think about a project you might want to teach at a workshop: Where are the natural breaking points for demonstrations? If you were to pace it out in a timeline, what segments might need more spaciousness and where could you pick up the pace if needed?
Where in your workshop could participants have opportunities for creative exploration and personal choice (This might be in shape, size, design, colour etc.)?
Reading References
The Art of Gathering by Priya Parker
Resources
workshop outline example
Here’s an example of the outline I’ll have printed out for myself to refer to during the workshop if need be.
30 Magical Questions - a list of ideas to get you started