Pottery morning

About this course

Learners develop pottery skills through practical demonstrations, visual references, discussions and mainly learning by doing. The class covers varied ceramic-making and decorating processes, including forming pots, working with clay and applying finishing techniques with glazes. Projects are largely self-directed, with guidance from tutors through group and individual demonstrations. Learners are encouraged to develop personal ideas, review their working methods and work towards greater independence in the studio.

What you'll learn

• Apply techniques used in different ceramic-making processes
• Design and make pots from personal ideas
• Use clay and glaze in developing ceramic forms
• Explain decorative and finishing considerations when working with glazes
• Follow workshop health and safety guidelines
• Evaluate personal ways of working and set further development goals

Is this course right for you?

The course is intended for learners with previous experience of working with clay who want to develop their ceramic practice through self-directed projects. Participants should be able to follow written and verbal instructions, demonstrations and safety information, use simple measurements, and take part in reflection and group discussion.

• Previous clay-working experience is required
• Projects are mainly self-directed, with tutor guidance
• The course includes individual and group demonstrations
• Learners should be prepared to review their own learning and working methods

Before you go

• Department tools are available for use, although learners may choose to buy their own tools after tutor advice.
• Learners must bring suitable closed shoes, such as footwear without open toes.
• Working at home with visual ideas is optional.
• Learners are expected to follow workshop health and safety guidelines.
• The potter’s wheel motor may pose a serious risk to people with pacemakers or internal defibrillators. They should contact the Ceramics Department before enrolling to discuss this.
• Clay and porcelain materials are charged separately.