Introduction to Ceramics - 2 day (ASC55)

Always wanted to try ceramics? During this two-day course, you will learn hand building techniques including traditional coiling and slab building and produce a ceramic vessel, garden planter or sculpture.

What will you learn on this course?

Develop your skills through the use of traditional coiling or slab building techniques, to produce a ceramic vessel, garden planter or sculpture.

You will have the opportunity to explore surface decoration through in-relief modelling, pattern and texture whilst working towards your finished outcome. Your own designs and ideas will be encouraged to enable you to find your personal working style.

You will be guided through a number of tutor-led demonstrations and set tasks which will introduce particular tips and techniques.

The course will cover the following skills and techniques:

• how to successfully develop 2d designs into 3d objects
• construction techniques
• understanding of the materials and different stages of making
• options for design, building, and quality of finish
• in-relief modelling, imprinted texture and slip decoration

Discuss ideas and intentions with the group and receive support in developing your own independent artistic style. The tutor will develop a guided programme of study with the group providing demonstrations and one-to-one support as required. You are encouraged to develop your own ideas, perhaps through sketched designs, and develop your own working style.

Our fully equipped studio will give you access to various stoneware clays, glazes, all necessary tools and the firing kiln.

On completion of this course you will have broadened your ceramics skills and learned new techniques for the realisation of your own design.

Please note that your work will need time to dry out and be fired twice in MAC’s kilns. Your work will be ready for collection up to 4 weeks after the date of your last workshop. We will contact you when the work is ready. When you arrive at MAC please ask for an Art Studio Technician or a Duty Manager who will be happy to help you retrieve your piece from our secure pottery cages.

Please note, by the nature of ceramics there is always a risk of technical failure, cracks or explosions for which we cannot be held responsible.

Who is this course for?

This course is suitable for adults aged 18+ years. It is open to beginner level students.

At the heart of MAC is a focus on accessibility and inclusion. Please contact us to discuss your specific access needs. You do need dexterity in your hands to work with clay. The room is wheelchair accessible. A personal assistant or companion must book a complimentary ticket if attending to provide support.

Do you need to bring anything?

You don’t need to bring anything. All materials and equipment is provided.

Are there any additional costs?

The course price includes all materials and firing of your work unless the particular pieces you wish to work on are oversized when an additional charge will be made. Please discuss with the tutor.

Who teaches this course?

Emily-Kriste Wilcox