Description
This course introduces contemporary approaches to image-making and surface design in ceramics, guiding participants from building the clay form through to the finished glazed piece.
In Week One, participants will create hand-built forms, focusing on shape, thickness and surface in preparation for decoration. Guidance will be given on finishing techniques and on how form can support and enhance surface imagery. Between sessions, participants will develop and sketch design ideas to bring to Week Two.
Week Two focuses on drawing images onto bone-dry greenware clay using pencil and beginning the underglazing process. Participants will explore pattern, imagery, composition, layering, and mark-making, experimenting with how different techniques translate onto the clay surface. There will be time to develop individual ideas and approaches to surface decoration at the beginning of this session.
In Week Three, participants will continue with surface design. Drawing and painting on clay can be a slow and meticulous process, depending on the complexity of the imagery.
Work will then be bisque fired.
Following bisque firing, pieces may be left with a matte bisque finish or glaze fired according to participant’s preference.
About the tutor: Sequoia Danielle Barnes uses ceramic sculpture, quilting, stitching/embroidery, soft sculpture, and illustration. Her practice engages with the semiotic and material deconstruction of black representation.