Ref: S4D37829
This course will introduce you to a variety of handbuilding techniques that can be used to create abstract organic sculptures - slabbing, coiling, pinching and extruding. There will be an emphasis on working with the clay with an open mind and an experimental approach, responding to the clays inherent tendencies and expressiveness, letting the clay guide you as well as you guiding it. You will have the opportunity to squish and squeeze, tear, pinch, bash and stretch and texture the clay with all manner of objects. You will also be introduced to the possibilities of incorporating non-ceramic elements pre- and post- firing.
Your tutor will share their processes, inspiration and key influences through an introductory talk and PowerPoint presentation on the first evening. On the following days, there will be demonstrations of each of the processes described above, with clear instructions on the use of tools and equipment, e.g. slab roller, extruder and whirlers.
Starting with guided play, you will collectively explore pushing, pinching, stretching and texturing clay to see what effects can be achieved. As you become more confident with the processes, you will be encouraged to start working towards a final piece/s combining some or all of the techniques that you have learnt and using the sample pieces that you have made for reference. The tutor will always be on hand for guidance and advice, with a selection of books and images for reference as well.
As you will be looking at organic form for inspiration, we may explore the outdoor environment at West Dean for ideas - weather permitting! Of course, you are welcome to bring your own source material to work from.
There will be the opportunity for simple decoration of the final pieces with oxides and once fire glazes are ready for firing at the end of the course.
On this course the tutor will supply some of the materials, including:
On this course, the College will supply clay and once-fired glazing materials. Other equipment required is provided for use on the course in the pottery studio.
The cost of clay/glazing materials and firing costs of work made large work in size and quantity may be charged extra.
Available from shop:
Firing and glazing options:
Leave a selection of your most successful raw finished pieces for once firing, or leave unglazed pieces for biscuit firing, basic glazing and re-firing by the College, for collection within six months.
Take away your unfired work for firing and glazing elsewhere.
Please wear appropriate clothing/aprons for the workshop or studio, this includes stout covered footwear (no sandals or open toes).
Arrival day
Residential students can arrive from 4pm, non-residential students to arrive by 7.15pm for registration. Students arriving earlier are welcome to purchase dinner in the College Dining Room from 6pm.
Students meet their tutor in the Bar at 7.30pm prompt to go to studios.
First Teaching session: 7.30pm - 9pm (attendance is essential)
Daily timetable
Course teaching: 9.15am - 5pm
Morning session: 9.15am - 12.45pm including coffee/tea break
Lunch break: 12.45pm - 2pm*
Afternoon session: 2pm - 5pm including coffee/tea break
Teaching finishes: 5pm
Evening working: students may have access to workshops until 9pm, but only with permission from the tutor and provided any health and safety guidelines are observed.
Departure day
Course teaching: 9.15am - 3pm
Teaching finishes: 3pm
Residential students will need to check out of rooms by 10am. Please note, the tutor may make slight variations to the daily timetable as required.
*Lunch can be purchased on campus, view options
A selected member of Craft Potters Association and Royal Society of Sculptors, Sarah has more than 20 years of experience teaching in formal and informal settings. She completed an MA in Studio Ceramics at Loughborough University in 2014.
Residential option available. Find out accommodation costs and how to book here.
Take the next step in your creative practice, with foundation level to Masters in Fine Art study.
Depending on your experience, start with an Online Foundation Certificate in Art and Design (one year, part-time), a Foundation Diploma in Art and Design made up of 10 short courses taken over two years (part-time) or advance your learning with our BA (Hons) Art and Contemporary Craft: Materials, Making, and Place (six years part-time). All will help you develop core skills, find direction in your practice and build an impressive portfolio in preparation for artist opportunities or higher-level study. See all degree and diploma courses.
