Buried Clay Treasures
Press the sea’s treasures into clay.
Enjoy the colours of the sea and all the ways it inspires texture and play!

Introduction
The beach has always been where I feel most creative. I walk, I think, I collect. My favourite time is right after a storm when the sand is full of tiny treasures: shells, sea glass, driftwood, things the tide has carried in and left behind. I have always loved making little worlds from those finds, knowing they will wash away again!
This theme is built on that same idea of creating, transforming and letting go. The ocean brings colour, texture and movement into everything we do, from painting and printmaking to sculpture and sensory play. It is about freedom, flow and the joy of discovery.
From Smudge to You
Below you'll find the collection of creative activities we've used to bring this theme to life at Smudge. Each one is an invitation to play, experiment, and see where the materials take you. Pick and choose what excites you and adapt them to your own space.
Press the sea’s treasures into clay.
Dive in! (the ocean won’t paint itself)
Big colour, bold marks, and a reef that glows like Ken Done.
Ocean giants and glittering fins
Print the sea again and again!
Sandcastle building without the sand in your toes
Dig and scoop and discover
Ahoy! This ship runs on colour and chaos.
Turn everyday shells into shimmering treasures.