Advanced ceramics: refine pottery skills through independent personal projects

About this course

Learners develop personal ceramics projects through hand-building, modelling, wheel throwing and slip casting, drawing on global ceramic traditions and combining processes in different ways. Tutor presentations, demonstrations, discussion, peer knowledge sharing and individual guidance support work at an individual pace. Participants receive verbal and written feedback while researching ideas, testing approaches and reviewing their developing practice. There is no formal assessment or required homework, although independent research and project development may continue outside class. Sessions also address reflection, evaluation and planning for future practice.

What you'll learn

• Combine hand-building, modelling, wheel throwing and slip casting techniques within personal ceramic projects
• Experiment with specialist clays, slips, oxides and underglazes to develop surface decoration
• Research ceramic traditions and other sources of inspiration to inform project development
• Evaluate personal ceramic practice through feedback, reflection and review
• Refine technical approaches and work more independently with specialist ceramics processes

Is this course right for you?

The course is designed for ceramics practitioners with at least three years’ experience of construction and decorating techniques. The advanced level indicates work beyond fundamental processes. Participants are expected to develop independent personal projects, work at their own pace and engage in individual guidance, discussion and sharing work with peers.

• Independent research and personal project work are central to the course.
• There is no formal assessment or expectation to complete work outside class.
• Specific specialist techniques should be discussed with the tutor or college before enrolment.

Before you go

• Participants should bring their own tools and an apron, or wear suitable clothing for studio work.
• Firing and glazing are charged according to the materials used and the weight of the work when bone dry.
• Only work produced at the college can be fired.
• Personal glazes require prior approval and testing; CONTEM underglazes may be brought for additional colours.