Ref: SWE37832
Benefit from an excellent opportunity for beginners to experience working on the potters wheel (throwing) using a white stoneware clay.
The focus of this course is to work in the spirit of the tutors own practice, which is influenced by historical dining vessels.
The first evening will start with an introductory talk, a brief overview of the throwing technique and a discussion on what forms and shapes can inspire your making.
On the first full day, you will start with clay preparation (kneading and wedging) and a throwing demonstration. You will be shown a number of techniques throughout the day and given one-to-one tuition and encouragement to build confidence.
On the second day, you will cover the finishing processes of turning and there will be time for further throwing practice for those who wish it. The session will end with a group discussion and review of the work.
The course is limited so that everyone has the use of a wheel for the whole weekend. You are likely to finish the course with six to eight pieces.
All clay, glazing and firing costs are included - large work in size and quantity may be charged extra.
Basic tool kits are provided in the pottery for use during the course.
Available from shop:
Firing and Glazing options:
Leave a selection of your most successful raw finished pieces (up to 5), for biscuit firing, basic glazing and re-firing by the College, for collection within six months.
Leave a selection of your most successful 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.
Take away your unfired pots for firing and glazing elsewhere.
Course reading list: For those interested in reading any books before the course, the following may be in your public library:
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.
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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