This course is delivered in a large studio workspace that makes use of five pottery wheels, two kilns, large canvas-covered tables, and a massive sink with a clay trap and four power nozzles. Our pugmill is used to recycle and reuse clay, which avoids waste.
Students are taught how to hand-build a variety of sculptures and wares using pinch, coil, and slab techniques, often utilizing tools. Wheel throwing is a large focus of this course as well, and students are taught to use the pottery wheel to throw cups, bowls, plates, vases, and other symmetrical pieces.
Decorative techniques using relief and incising, combined with slip, underglaze, and glaze applications, are honed in this course, with students having access to over twenty glaze colors.
Students are provided with all the materials, tools, and supplies required to complete the course, but may purchase additional clay if they pursue extensive passion projects.
This is an enjoyable and calming course that emphasizes the patience and discipline involved in creating projects that must be planned and executed with precision. Students are trained to use the proper procedures to avoid inhaling silica dust, and are responsible for the cleaning and maintenance of the studio, leaving the studio pristine after each class session.