Animal forms in ceramic
Course Code: VR782
Duration: 6 sessions (over 6 weeks)
Please note: We offer a wide variety of financial support to make courses affordable. Just visit our online Help Center for more information on a range of topics including fees, online learning and FAQs.
What is the course about?
The course is about exploring the possibilities of creating small scale animal forms in clay, using various techniques.
What will we cover?
Slab building, coiling, and pinching will be taught, as well as different tooling techniques to bring three-dimensional
clay figures to life. If you are a thrower, you are welcome to add or work with thrown elements. We will explore some basic surface decoration with slips, mono-printing and texture, as well as glazing.
What will I achieve?
By the end of this course you should be able to...
- Have an understanding of one or several hand-building techniques
- Be able to use these techniques to create small clay animal forms
- Be able to consider the surface of the figure/s, and have an understanding of simple decorating techniques as
appropriate.
What level is the course and do I need any particular skills?
Some experience with clay is beneficial, as the course is quite short, but basic techniques will be covered.
How will I be taught, and will there be any work outside the class?
You will be taught through presentations, demonstrations, and explanations, as well as hand-outs. The tutor will
provide guidance and advice. You will not be required to do any work outside the class, but if you wish to do any
drawing, sketching, or collecting images, you are very welcome to do so.
Are there any other costs? Is there anything I need to bring?
There is a charge of £2.50 per 500g for clay before firing, the porcelain charge is £20.00 per bag/ £10.00 per half bag.Tools and materials are provided, you do not need to bring anything with you.
Need art supplies? Our partner London Graphic Centre has everything you need from pencil to printing services, at 15% off.
To get an LGC discount card, students will need to show proof/ confirmation of enrolment of them being a student at City Lit. You can apply for our card in-store or by simply emailing info@londongraphics.co.uk with a scan or photo of relevant confirmation. The student discount does not apply to products that are already discounted or on offer. More information can be found here- https://www.londongraphics.co.uk/student-discounts/.
When I've finished, what course can I do next?
Pottery for beginners and improvers - VR792 or Ceramics surface decoration in clay - VR719. At the end of the course you will be given information about further courses available for those who wish to continue.
Trained as a thrower at Harrow School of Art on the Studio Pottery Course Josie went on to work in production studios in both raw fired earthenware and stoneware, domestic ware. Her own work is hand built using thinly rolled sheets of clay combined with pinching and coiling using a white grogged clay. Initially fired in an electric kiln the work is then earthenware, sawdust or raku fired. Josie’s work blends serious with an infusion of comicality whilst referencing personal experiences and observations. Her work has been sold in England and overseas to private and public collections. It can be seen in her studio at Open Studios at Kingsgate Workshop Trust. For over 40 years Josie has combined studio practice at Kingsgate with teaching ceramics in adult education: Camberwell School of Art, Camden Arts Centre and the Architectural Association. Josie’s commissioned writing includes “The Complete Practical Potter” and “Beginners Ceramic Handbook” still available for purchase online. https://www.kingsgateworkshops.org.uk/makers/josie-warshawartist / maker Instagram: josiewarshawceramics
Please note: We reserve the right to change our tutors from those advertised. This happens rarely, but if it does, we are unable to refund fees due to this. Our tutors may have different teaching styles; however we guarantee a consistent quality of teaching in all our courses.
