Iowa Ceramics Center & Glass Studio

Peru Through the Eyes of a Ceramic Artist

Join us for a Creative Journey Inspired by Ancient Clay, Living Traditions & Extraordinary Landscapes

BEGINNING A NEW TRADITION AT ICCGS--GROUP TRAVEL

Join us for a trip on September 8-17, 2027

Check out the information below and then join us for a presentation and Q&A Session on
Monday, August 3rd from 5:30-6:30 pm

Machu Picchu
Ollantaytambo

What if your next source of artistic inspiration wasn't in your studio—but in the Andes?

Join fellow ceramic enthusiasts on an unforgettable journey through Peru, where thousands of years of ceramic tradition continue to influence artists around the world. 

From the breathtaking heights of Machu Picchu to the vibrant markets of the Sacred Valley, this is more than a vacation—it’s an immersive artistic experience that connects history, culture, craftsmanship, and creativity.

Museo Larco
Uros Floating Islands

Why this Tour Speaks to Ceramic Artists & Our Creative Community

🏺 Walk Among Ancient Ceramic Traditions

Peru’s pre-Columbian civilizations created some of the world’s most remarkable pottery. Throughout the journey, you’ll experience the landscapes, architecture, and cultural traditions that inspired generations of master artisans.

🎨 Exclusive Visit to Pablo Seminario Ceramic Studio

One of the true highlights of the journey is an in-depth visit to internationally acclaimed ceramic artist Pablo Seminario. Discover how he and his family revive ancient Peruvian motifs and techniques while creating contemporary works celebrated around the world.

Watch the creative process unfold, explore the studio, and gain insight into how ancient symbolism, natural forms, and archaeological discoveries continue to influence modern ceramic design. You’ll leave with ideas and inspiration that may find their way into your own work long after the trip ends.

🏛️ Explore Ollantaytambo

Wander through one of the best-preserved Incan settlements in existence. Massive hand-cut stones, intricate terraces, and sophisticated engineering reveal the incredible artistry and craftsmanship of the Inca civilization. Notice the textures, patterns, and forms that have endured for centuries—perfect inspiration for makers who appreciate design born from function.

🛍️ Experience Peru’s Colorful Artisan Markets

Browse the famous Pisac Market where local artists and craftspeople gather to sell handmade textiles, pottery, jewelry, and traditional artwork. It’s the perfect place to discover authentic handcrafted treasures while observing centuries-old artistic traditions that continue today.

🏺 Explore the World-Class Larco Museum
End your journey with a visit to one of South America’s finest museums of ancient art. The Larco Museum houses an extraordinary collection spanning more than 3,000 years of Peruvian ceramics, including ceremonial vessels, sculptural forms, and intricately decorated pottery from Peru’s earliest civilizations. For ceramic artists, it’s an unparalleled opportunity to study historic forms, symbolism, craftsmanship, and surface decoration before celebrating the trip with a special farewell dinner in the museum’s beautiful gardens.

And these are just a few of the experiences you will have.  Check the day by day itinerary link below for more details!  

Connect with Living Traditions

Art is about People as much as Objects: Inspiration around every corner

Spend meaningful time with an Andean community where families continue to practice traditional farming, weaving, music, and dance. Participate in hands-on demonstrations, share a farm-to-table meal prepared especially for your group, and experience the warmth and hospitality that define Peruvian culture.

These authentic interactions offer a deeper understanding of the traditions that continue to shape Peruvian art and craftsmanship today.

Throughout the journey you’ll discover:

  • Ancient architecture filled with remarkable textures and geometric design
  • Vibrant colors reflected in textiles, markets, and mountain villages
  • Traditional pottery and artisan craftsmanship
  • Spectacular landscapes unlike anywhere else on Earth
  • A rich artistic heritage spanning more than 3,000 years

Whether you throw on the wheel, handbuild, sculpt, teach ceramics, or simply appreciate handmade art, Peru offers endless inspiration that you’ll carry home to your own creative practice.

Pablo Seminario-Ceramic Studio

Travel with Fellow Creative Spirits

There’s something special about exploring the world with people who notice the same details you do—the curve of a vessel, the texture of stone, the rhythm of repeating patterns, or the story behind an ancient design.

This journey is designed for travelers who believe art isn’t confined to the studio. It’s found in landscapes, cultures, traditions, and the people who continue to create by hand.

Come discover Peru not just as a traveler—but as an artist.

PRICING INFORMATION:

Sign up by February 2027 to spend time exploring your creative spirit in Peru! 

This trip has been organized by our friends at Collette Travel: