Islamic Ceramics (ASC10)

During this course you will explore various Islamic styles of pots, dishes and tiles as basis for you own designs, inspired by the use of geometry, floral and calligraphy styles of Islamic ceramics.

What will you learn on this course?

The legacy of Islamic potters is unique - they were the first to use white slip in conjunction with cobalt blue, centuries before the blue and white Chinese porcelain. Islamic ceramics also inspired William de Morgan, William Morris and the arts and craft movement particularly in ceramics but also fabrics.

As well as historical work, you will also look at contemporary ceramics inspired by Islamic designs. Hand building techniques such as coiling and slab pots will be covered including decorative techniques such as slip brush painting, slip trailing and pierced fret work.

You will be encouraged to develop your own ideas and the tutor will teach you how to translate these ideas into your own unique designs. Using the ceramics skills, you have learned you will choose the appropriate techniques to realise your design in clay. The course tutor will encourage you to develop your individual interests and styles and support you through to the completion of your project. Any work you produce on this course is yours to take home.

Our fully equipped pottery studio will give you access to various stoneware clays, pottery wheel, glazes, coloured slips, all necessary tools and the firing kilns.

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.

Who is this course for?

This course is suitable for adults aged 18+ years. It is for all levels including beginners and improvers/advanced practitioners seeking to develop and build on their skills working with an experienced tutor.

At the heart of MAC is a focus on accessibility and inclusion. Please contact us to discuss your specific access needs. 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?

There are no additional costs. The course price includes all materials and firing of your work.

Who teaches this course?

Sue Dyer