The aim of this course is to guide you through the design process of integrating clay forming and surfaces through hands-on making. It will show a variety of techniques for decoration and texture as part of the process (as opposed to adding after bisque or through glazing, although this could eventually be an extra aesthetic layer) and experiments with picking up colour and relief work with plaster, print and transfer methods. It will inspire ways to think about approaches to bespoke and one-off ceramics, show spontaneous and fun ideas for further development or to embed into a personal practice.

The outcome of the 4-day course will be a completed breakfast set, comprising of a cup or mug, bowl and small plate design with decoration, inspired by the surrounding visuals of West Dean, Sussex.  You will learn how to prepare and make your own formers in plaster (which you may take away), carve plaster, use batts and drop out/hump moulds to colour, texturise and shape the surface. A blend of hand building clay, handle shaping, press moulding will be demonstrated and practised.

At the end of the course, each attendee will select two of your made ceramic ‘breakfast sets’ ready for firing and glazing. Additional pieces can be made and fired at extra cost.  Everyone will experience ideas around pattern and colour in ceramics, as a beginner or adding to previous knowledge of creating positive and negative relief textures. The skills learned can be applied to other surface decoration methods, modelling and moulding materials.

Included

On this course the College will supply most of the materials including 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

• Sketchbooks
• Photographic inspiration
• If you plan to take your unfired work away with you please bring plenty of packaging material, boxes and bubble wrap to ensure its safe journey home
• Camera and sketchbook to record the journey through the course
• Apron and covered/non-slip footwear 
• Pottery tools if you have your own

Available to buy

Available from shop:

• Pottery tools, wooden and loop tools 
• Natural sponges
• Brushes
• Sketchbooks

Additional information

Firing options: 
1. Leave any raw, finished pieces that you wish to keep, for firing by the College, for collection within six months. 

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

Wear appropriate clothing/aprons for the workshop or studio, this includes stout covered footwear i.e. no open-toes or sandals. Possible equipment restrictions in tutor absence. 

Arrival day
Residential students can arrive from 4pm, non-residential students to arrive by 6.45pm for registration
6.45pm: Welcome, followed by dinner (included)
8 - 9pm: First teaching session, attendance is essential

Daily timetable
Course teaching 9.15am - 5pm (lunch included)
Dinner: from 6.30pm (included for residential students)
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 (lunch included)
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

Terms & Conditions