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Workshops
Currently closed for the season and will resume classes starting in June.
Workshop classes will be available during summer months (June-August). Parties are limited to 2 individuals at a time.
Workshops are available on a 1, 2, and 3 session schedule, lasting 2 hours. Final Pieces will be available for pick-up the following week.
Skills You’ll Learn
Hand Building Workshop (Slabs and Coils):
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Slab Building Techniques: Participants will learn how to roll out clay evenly to create flat, rectangular shapes that can be manipulated into various forms. They’ll develop skills in cutting, scoring, and joining slabs to construct vessels, sculptures, or functional pieces like plates and tiles.
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Coil Building Techniques: Through coil building, participants will learn how to roll out clay into long, snake-like coils that can be stacked or shaped to build forms. This technique allows for intricate designs and organic shapes, fostering creativity and experimentation in constructing both small and large-scale pieces.
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Surface Decoration: In addition to forming clay, participants will learn techniques for surface decoration such as carving, stamping, and applying textures. These skills will enable them to add visual interest and personal flair to their hand-built creations.
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Structural Integrity: Understanding the principles of structural integrity is crucial in hand building. Participants will learn how to assess the strength and stability of their pieces throughout the construction process to avoid collapses or deformities.
Wheel Throwing Workshop:
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Centering: Centering clay on the potter’s wheel is the foundation of wheel throwing. Participants will learn how to apply consistent pressure and movement to the clay to achieve a perfectly centered mass, essential for creating symmetrical forms.
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Throwing Techniques: Once centered, participants will explore various throwing techniques to shape the clay into desired forms such as bowls, cups, and vases. This involves pulling, lifting, and shaping the clay walls while maintaining even thickness and balance.
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Trimming and Finishing: After throwing, participants will learn how to trim excess clay from the base of their pieces to refine their forms and create clean edges. They’ll also learn techniques for adding handles, spouts, or other embellishments to enhance functionality and aesthetics.
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Glazing: Glazing is the final step in the wheel throwing process. Participants will learn about different glazes, their application methods, and how glaze interacts with clay and firing temperatures to achieve desired colors and finishes.
Overall, both workshops will provide participants with a comprehensive understanding of ceramic techniques, fostering creativity, craftsmanship, and artistic expression in clay. These skills are not only valuable for creating functional and decorative ceramics but also for cultivating a deeper appreciation for the art form and its rich history.
