Using basic hand building techniques of slab, coil and pinch, we will find focus and inspiration from natural forms; sea shells, seedpods, rocks, and more. Whether you want to bring more sculptural aspects to your vessel forms or try your hand at creating ceramic sculpture, we will step through the process of moving from inspiration, to clarity of idea, to manifestation. Guidance and problem solving will be addressed individually and as a collective group. The class will provide multiple creative exercises as well as technical information to help you design and make a nature inspired work of art.

(In the event that BAC has to cancel a class session due to weather or facility emergencies, please note the pre-scheduled makeup date for this course will be Wednesday, October 25. More information on our policies for cancellations can be found HERE.)

Please note proof of vaccination is no longer required for this class and masks are optional, but encouraged. Please review updated COVID Safety Plan HERE.

CLASS MATERIALS

• Students registering for this class must purchase the Ceramics Class Materials Fee including clay, glazing, and firing. If you have leftover clay purchased from BAC in the last year, the clay purchase requirement can be waived. Per the instructor's recommendation, students registering for this class should purchase the “95400 White Clay” option.

BEGINNER (All classes are appropriate for beginners unless otherwise specified in the title)

• New to clay with little to no experience working with clay as an artistic medium, or have taken a few classes but want a refresher/practice reinforcing basic skills.

• Little to no knowledge of wheel throwing or trimming.

• Little to no experience with sculptural techniques such as coiling, slab work or pinching.

• Little to no knowledge of the basics of glaze application.

• Little to no knowledge of different types of kiln temperatures/atmospheres.

INTERMEDIATE:

• Have taken at least one year of ceramic classes and want to continue building skills.

• Ability to wedge clay.

• Familiar with the terms: greenware, leather/cheese hard, and bone dry clay.

• For Wheel Throwing: Ability to center on a potter’s wheel and throw and trim basic forms (cylinders, bowls) unaided.

• For Handbuilding: Ability to roll a slab unaided and build basic forms using the techniques of pinching, slabs, or coils.

• Knowledge and some experience with glaze application and basic understanding of different kiln temperatures and atmospheres.

ADVANCED:

• (all of the above)

• Have 3 plus years of ceramic class experience.

• Able to create a body of work with either the potter’s wheel or using sculptural/handbuilding techniques.

• Working knowledge of glaze application, surface decoration, and familiarity with different kiln atmospheres and cone temperatures.

• Confident and experienced in glaze application and identifying different types of glaze.

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