Ceramics

What will the course Cover?

The course is an introduction to throwing and a wide range of hand building techniques, including coiling, using the whirler and slab building, while emphasising how these techniques are used within traditions across the world since the Neolithic period. It is also an opportunity for those with experience to develop further skills, considering the conventions of making from a variety of traditions, exploring clay work within a variety of methods of making.

Who is this course for?

The course is designed for beginners with little or no experience of clay to work with a range of hand building techniques. There is also the opportunity for beginners, new to the wheel to work with basic throwing practice. However, there is the chance for more experienced throwers to stretch their skills to new levels, such as throwing complex forms or sections work.

What skills, knowledge or experience do I need to start this course?

An interest in working with clay and trying out a range of processes.

What should I be able to do by the end of the course?

If you are a beginner, you will have gained the confidence in preparing clay, coiling using a whirler and at least one other hand building technique that will encourage you to continue your journey with clay. You will also have a basic contextual understanding of how these techniques you are learning are applied in the different cultural environments, with references that you can follow up on to see from galleries and museums. If you are already a maker and have some throwing experience, you will be able to apply and practice specific techniques to improve your throwing practice. You will also have a method to troubleshoot problems that commonly occur with throwing, especially at the beginning, mid stages, such recentring work or throwing larger or narrower cylinders.

How is the course organised?

This is a practical course in the ceramic studio environment. You will be taught in a group and through individual tutoring. There will be tutor demonstrations of techniques, presentations and group discussions.

What extra study or practice is expected outside of the class?

To get the most out of the course, you will need to take photos of all work produced and some personal research is be expected.

How will my progress be assessed?

• Tutor feedback. • Group discussions and evaluations. • Progress reported on Individual Learning Plan.

What can I expect to go on to after this course?

Other ceramics courses you might want to consider at the MacBeth Centre include, Pottery – all levels.

Are there any other costs and what do I need to bring?

Clay is charged per pound of clay to cover materials and firing costs. Wear solid footwear i.e. no sandals or open footwear and clothes suitable for clothes for working in the workshop.

What support is available?

Help with literacy or numeracy is available through the basic education programme and the ESOL programme offers help for speakers of other languages. Additional support can be provided for students with learning difficulties and/or disabilities. Details of all available support can be found on our website (hfals.co.uk), in the Guide, the Student Handbook, or from teaching and reception staff.

Tutor - Ian Thompson

Ian Thompson is an artist working primarily in ceramic media. Based in London, he works with the wheel and a variety of porcelain, occasionally stoneware and earthenware clay bodies. He produces ceramic thrown functional ware including jugs, vases, bowls and bottles. He also creates large, sometimes very large ceramic sculptural pieces for galleries and commissions. In this work, Ian employs detailed painting, with or without a glaze application and relies upon his knowledge of painting developed over many years of study. Initially he trained in Fine Art, at Camberwell then Canterbury and after working in France for some years, studied MA Ceramics at the Royal College of Art. Ian exhibits with a range of galleries and works with curators for exhibitions and private commissioned work. www.ianthompsonceramics.com