T1 Ceramics - On & Off the Wheel Morning

Course Description

Create functional and sculptural ceramics using a variety of innovative and traditional techniques. Learn surface techniques, hand-building and wheel work, creating ceramic pieces on-and-off the wheel. This class is structured for participants to follow the tutor’s projects or work independently with guidance as needed. About your Tutor: Namibian-born ceramic artist Ronél Koen specialises in Nerikomi-inspired, functional art using clay as her medium of choice. Her work is influenced and driven by her love of landscape and the delicate balance between texture and form. She finds the intricate layering of clay into patterns used in the ancient Japanese art of Nerikomi the perfect way to explore these narratives. By using the layering of Nerikomi techniques, she’s able the draw awareness to the surface beneath the clay by drawing the eye into the surface. These processes become an abstract exploration into ‘painting’ with clay. Her work also questions the fine line between utilitarianism and objects of art, and she creates work that draws on our sense of nostalgia, loss, memory and longing. Apart from having a degree in Fine Arts and Applied Arts, Ronél has also had a long creative career in the design and advertising industry. About the course This course is suitable for beginners to build fundamentals and experienced makers wishing to broaden their horizons. We will explore a variety of techniques depending on individual projects and group dynamics. These may include wheel-throwing, sculpting, hand-building, texturing and decorative techniques, slip trailing, slab-building, coil-building, press moulding and glazing. This class will encourage experimentation, a place to explore and step outside of their comfort zone in a friendly and encouraging atmosphere. Wear old clothes/apron, Old towel, Personal clay tools - optional Journal and pencil Ideas, creativity, positive attitude. Material fee, paid to tutor at the first class: A $40 material fee is payable to the first class tutor. Includes 1 bag of Stoneware clay, fair use of colourants and glazes. Tools and equipment are supplied, but students are encouraged to purchase their own small set of clay tools to bring each week. Extra materials and fees discussed in class Cost of firing is included in course fee. All works fired on-site must be produced in your Tresillian class from clay supplied by or approved by your tutor. Size limit of 30cm. Fired works ready withing 4 weeks of term end.