Tile Cat 瓦猫
A ceramic workshop on How to Unleash Your Inner Entrepreneur.
瓦猫, or Tile Cat, originated from folk architectural customs in Yunnan, China. Initially, these figures were placed on rooftops as guardian beasts to ward off evil and protect the home. Over time, this architectural element evolved from a purely functional object into handcrafted art with aesthetic value. Today, creators preserve these unique folk symbols and rustic textures to produce popular desktop ornaments and cultural products, revitalizing this ancient cultural heritage in modern life as a form of sculptural decoration.
Tile Cat workshop
15th August 2026
Location: Lalita's Ceramic Studio
2 hours; 10am -12pm Group class
or You can book at your convenient time,
(minimum attendants 2 people)
$93 per person
Tile cat workshop
On the ancient rafters of Yunnan architecture, there is a unique tradition of the "wa mao"—small ceramic cats perched on rooftops, guarding homes and symbolizing safety and happiness. In Lalita’s course, we bring this concept of the wa mao (tile cat ) into practical, everyday ceramics. Here, you will create your own versions of these cats—whether as delicate ornaments, incense holders, or fruit trays. Each wa mao can be shaped in countless forms—tall or short, plump or slender, with endless colors and intricate underglaze designs. This course is not only a creative exploration but also a bridge to the architectural history of the past. The wa mao, as part of Yunnan’s cultural fabric, allows us to connect daily life with ancient architectural heritage, infusing each piece with the warmth of history and the spark of personal imagination.
