Throwing and turning teapots with Tim Andrews

Ref: S4D37936

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About this course

Using throwing, turning and finishing techniques in stoneware and/or porcelain, explore the form and function of teapots with a sense of coherence and personal narrative. For competent throwers on the pottery wheel.

Course Description

Teapots have been an iconic part of British culture for centuries. In this course, Tim draws on more than 40 years of experience of making that began working with David Leach.

Using throwing, turning and finishing techniques in stoneware and/or porcelain, explore the exciting possibilities of form and function of thrown teapots with emphasis on developing the individual approach of each maker.

Tim will guide you through each stage of making with demonstrations, talks and practical help. The course will examine the functional and aesthetic relationships of the individual elements of teapots such as spouts, handles and lids - and how to achieve a sense of coherence in the finished pieces.

The course is for students with reasonable throwing skills who are able to throw basic forms on the wheel. Beginner skills cannot be taught. Most students will be able to finish making a small group of teapots by the end of the course.

Course Materials

Included

The cost of clay/glazing materials and firing costs of work made – large work in size and quantity may be charged extra.

What students need to bring

  • Please bring Any particular or favourite tools you like to use (make sure they are well identified) and enough aprons and Old towels to keep clean while throwing
  • Cardboard boxes for taking away pots at the end of the course

Available to buy

Available from shop:

  • Some additional tools e.g. pottery tools, pottery knife
  • Rough paper, notebook, or sketch pad and pencil
  • Wood or plastic ruler
  • Plastic set square
  • Natural sponge

Basic tool kits are provided in the pottery for use on the course.

Additional information

Firing and glazing options:

  1. Leave any raw, finished pieces that you wish to keep, for biscuit firing, basic glazing and re-firing by the College, for collection within six months.

  2. Leave raw, finished pieces for biscuit firing at the College. You can then book a place on a Glazing Day and glaze your own work (allowing four weeks for your work to be biscuit fired). This work will be re-fired after glazing and available for collection within six months.

  3. Take away your unfired pots for firing and glazing elsewhere.

Please wear appropriate clothing/aprons for the workshop or studio. This includes stout covered footwear, i.e. no open-toes or sandals, and safety boots, if specified.

Timetable

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

General Information

Tutors

Tim Andrews Short Course Tutor West Dean College of Arts and Conservation

Tim Andrews

Tim has taught around the world for over thirty years - workshops, lecturing, FE & HE. He trained originally with David Leach and at Dartington. Tim exhibits internationally - most recently in Japan, China and Australia. He is the author of two books on Raku ceramics, is fellow of the CPA and honorary President of the West Country Potters Association.

Accommodation

Residential option available. Find out accommodation costs and how to book here.

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Further study options

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.