The Art of Ceramics: A Comprehensive Study of Materials and Methods
This course offers a blend of traditional and modern techniques, focusing not just on making, but on the artistic and scientific principles behind each step. Through a combination of structured instruction and open-ended exploration, you'll build confidence and skill in every stage of ceramic production—from shaping to firing. Take your skills from basic to professional in 24 weeks.
With small group sizes of up to four, you'll receive personalized attention from our experienced tutors, allowing you ample guidance and the freedom to fully explore your creative potential as a potter.
Course elements
Hand Building Pinch Pots, Coils, & Slabs
Discover the ancient technique of pinching clay into simple yet elegant forms. This foundational skill serves as an introduction to understanding the properties of clay. Learn to build larger and more complex forms using coils, perfecting this versatile hand-building technique that opens up endless creative possibilities.
Explore slab construction, mastering the art of joining flat pieces of clay to create structured, geometric forms.Slip Casting
Delve into the process of slip casting to create intricate forms using plaster molds, ideal for replicating designs with precision.Introduction to Wheel Throwing
Get acquainted with the pottery wheel, learning the basics of centering clay and forming simple vessels. Spend a few sessions building up your skill and body of work.Advanced Wheel Throwing and Trimming
Refine your wheel-throwing skills and develop advanced forms. Learn trimming techniques to add professional finishing touches to your pieces.Choice of Making
Exercise creative freedom by choosing your preferred method—pinch, coil, slab, wheel, or slip casting—to create an ongoing personal body of work. These sessions focus on independent exploration with instructor guidance.Sprig Moulds and casting
Explore decorative relief techniques using sprig molds to add ornate surface details to your ceramic work. Create your own moulds to add repetition to your work and build on creating your brand and style.Sgraffito, Inlay, and Slips
Experiment with surface design through sgraffito, inlay, and colored slips, creating layered textures and patterns that enhance your work.Underglazes, Stains, & Decals
Learn to apply underglazes and ceramic stains, understanding how color and texture interact on the surface of your pottery. Explore the use of decals for intricate and precise designs, offering another layer of customization and detail.Glazing Fundamentals & Specialty Glazes
Master the essential principles of glazing, from application techniques to understanding glaze chemistry. Dive deeper into the world of glazing by experimenting with specialty glazes to create unique finishes, from crystalline effects to reactive surfaces. You’ll be guided through the weighing and mixing of raw materials to create your custom glaze.Kiln Management
Gain hands-on experience with kiln operation, including loading, firing schedules, and troubleshooting common issues. This vital skill ensures the successful completion of your ceramic creations and will give you the confidnece if you wish to set up your own home studio.This course is designed to equip you with all the knowledge you need to create a large body of work with a polished, professional edge.
Further Development
As you develop your ceramic skills, you may wish to expand your creative practice into a business or side hustle. We’ll cover how to set up your own website, provide equipment for photographing your work, and help you curate your portfolio while building a brand. Additionally, you can join us in attending craft shows, which offer opportunities to network, engage with customers in person, and gain visibility in the artisan community. Each of these avenues provides unique benefits for growing your ceramics practice and sharing your work with a wider audience.
