In-person course
in Reading Maker & location details

Ceramics: This Thing Called Joy

Description

This workshop is centred around exploring Sgrafitto beyond its traditional form. A location like Micklem’s farm makes for an inspirational backdrop for this workshop. This one day workshop will have two main elements: On one hand you will learn the technique of designing Sgrafitto on ceramic surface. On the other end, you will understand the design process of bringing your concept to life through guided steps. We will learn to apply multiple coloured slips while learning to the technical aspect of slip application before starting Sgrafitto. We will learn to layer coloured slip on a tall cylindrical form. Engraving on a curved surface is interesting at the same time challenging. A memory has the power to evoke our senses in unexpected ways. A whiff of a delicately fragrant flower can transport you to a time of lazy summer days or a vacation in an exotic location. A passing vintage car or a quilt hanging in a shop can bring memories of a connection to grandparents. The smell of a particular food can feel like a warm comforting time of your childhood. In all its fickle minded presence, memories can also bring unwanted feelings. In a world fast spiralling out of control, I am keen to bring some joy with this workshop. We will look back at those joyous moments of life, which are worth holding onto. So join me in exploring your happy memories in this workshop aptly called “this thing called joy”. Surface design in pottery: No matter what material an object is made of, its visual appeal lies in its surface treatment. It leaves an impression while telling a story. Ceramics has its fair share of various surface design techniques, from bright colours to muted glazes, from hand painting to decal prints. Lot of times, the clay itself is designed as a surface decoration. As a professional Ceramic designer/maker, I have explored various surface techniques. In my current collection I use intricate fine lines in minimalist monotone to develop Sgrafitto on the surface. Sgrafitto comes from Italian word “Sgraffiare” which means to scratch away the surface to reveal the base layer. Some students finish both plates before the end of the workshop. Extra objects (mostly a cylindrical vase) will be available to purchase from the tutor on the day at the cost of £30/ each. Please get in touch via the 'message the tutor' button below. What’s covered: - Introduction on the technique and skills (show some samples and examples). - Applying coloured slip on the base. - Teach steps on designing a surface from a single idea/ concept from my own examples. - Developing the design on a tracing sheet or on a paper. If comfortable, then directly onto the clay surface. - Transfer the design on the base of the pottery supplied. - Start Sgrafitto and continue at home if not complete by end of the day. Your pieces will be taken away for firing in a kiln, and will be returned to Micklems Farm for you to collect after the course. What to bring: - Old clothes/apron. - A packed lunch.

What's included in the price?

- All materials. - Expert tuition. - 1 to 1 guidance. - Detailed demonstrations - A selection of tea, freshly brewed coffee, biscuits and delicious cakes. If you have any specific dietary requirements or allergies, please feel free to bring along your own provisions/milk alternatives, etc. And of course you take your wonderful creations from the day. If you share any photographs of your day here and/or your finished work, we’d love to see them so please tag us on social media! Terms - fee is payable on booking. If, having booked, you can no longer attend, we are unable to offer a refund or transfer you to another workshop. However, you may nominate someone else to attend the workshop or class in your place by notifying us using the contact page on the Micklems Farm website. We reserve the right to cancel a workshop up to 48 hours prior to the workshop date. We will only cancel due to insufficient places sold and you will be refunded the full amount paid. Number of students: 10