Ref: S4D40274
Working with a range of matt and shiny surfaces, you will learn how to create and fire a series of tests to achieve a wide range of different colours, using simple methods that you will be able to repeat yourself. You will be able to choose particular colour ranges to explore either stains or oxides. You will also make, fire and glaze your own sets of handmade clay test pieces, exploring surface qualities relevant to you.
Temperature has an amazing effect on ceramic materials and colours, and experimenting is the best way to begin to develop a language which can enhance the pieces you make. You will be introduced to the complexities of using, programming and firing electric kilns. You will learn to record processes and results, so that you can analyse the results, which will enable you to repeat and use the most successful glazes on your work in the future.
This course is suitable for anyone who would like to develop their general understanding of glaze, colour, surface and its use in ceramic practice. It will enable you to create a personal portfolio of coloured glaze tests, with an understanding of how these can be independently used and applied to both thrown and handbuilt pieces of all kinds.
One of the keys to creating successful ceramic work is the relationship between the final fired surface and the forms you have made. So often, there is a mismatch between these two elements that is difficult to understand. To help you work in a more professional manner, we will unpick numerous possibilities and map out ways forward that will enable you to have more confidence in finding your own range of glaze options.
By the end of the course, you will have a collection of test pieces made in series, which explore a range of fired surfaces that can be used by you in the future, and a technical notebook/file which provides knowledge and a resource from which you can develop your future ceramic work.
All glaze materials and small test tiles made by the tutor are provided in the course fee. Clay and raw dry materials will be provided by the college for shared use.
Available from shop:
Glaze firing: Any work left at the college for a glaze firing must be collected within six months of the email notifying you that it is ready for collection. Alternatively, you are free to take away unfired pieces for firing 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.
Arrival day - first date of course
Residential students can arrive from 4pm, non-residential students to arrive by 6.45pm for registration
Student welcome, followed by dinner: 6.45pm (dinner included)
Teaching session: 8pm-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 (lunch included)
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 - last date of course
Course teaching: 9.15am-3pm (lunch included)
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.
Kyra Cane studied Ceramics at Camberwell College of Arts, she has taught and examined on numerous courses, notably Harrow Ceramics, University of Westminster. Her work is exhibited in national and international galleries. She has written a book about Making and Drawing and is currently Chair of the Craft Potters Charitable Trust.
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.
