Ref: SLW40320
This course will provide a holistic approach to glaze chemistry, theory and development. The focus is to help demystify the many different aspects of glaze practice, such as the principles of glaze, the materials used, methods of application and firing. The aim of the course is to be accessible, informative and to instil confidence. It is suited to anyone who would like to develop their general understanding of glazes, and will start with the basics and build upwards to ensure a solid foundation and grounding is fully established.
On the first evening, there will be an introductory talk about the fundamentals of glaze and the properties of the raw materials. On days two and three, you will learn how to read and calculate a glaze recipe. This will be followed by how to test and develop your glazes using a variety of methods, such as line blends and bi-axial blends. As part of this process, you will learn how to record and analyse your results, which will enable you to repeat and use the most successful glazes on your work in the future.
Throughout the course, there will be opportunities to reflect on the test results that are produced each day to help you understand the specific attributes and effects of the individual material components that constitute the overall glaze. You will experiment with colouring pigments such as oxides and stains, to explore how colour in glaze can be achieved and developed.
By the end of the course, you will have produced a broad collection of glaze samples and test results, which can be used as a valuable resource and reference as your creative practice evolves.
Key skills/content covered on this course:
All glaze materials will be provided by the College for shared use. Your tutor will supply the bisque tiles required for glaze testing and experimentation.
Available from shop:
Please wear appropriate clothing/aprons for the workshop or studio, this includes stout covered footwear (no sandals or open toes).
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.
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.
Louisa Taylor studied an MA in Ceramics and Glass at the RCA, London (2004-2006). She is based in Brighton where she produces her ceramic tableware range for shops, galleries and collectors in the UK and internationally. She is a Senior Lecturer at the University of Brighton and a member of the Crafts Potters Association and Contemporary Applied Arts.
Residential option available. Find out accommodation costs and how to book here.
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