T1 Ceramics–Wheel Work & Explore 6 PM

Course Description

Explore pottery techniques, on and off the wheel. A course suited to those looking to learn the basics of throwing on the potter’s wheel, hand-building or expand their already developed skills. In this course we will explore pottery techniques, on and off the wheel. Beginning with the basics of centering clay on the potter’s wheel to throwing vessels such as cups, vases, bowls and more. For those who prefer to work purely with their hands we will also be exploring hand-building techniques through slab building, coiling and pinch pots. Once students have created their forms, they will then learn to decorate them with a range of techniques and materials. The final week of the course students will learn basic glazing techniques to finish their pieces. This course is suitable for absolute beginners to those with some experience with clay who want to hone their skills. Your tutor: Shupiwe Chongwe is a Walyalup-raised ceramicist focusing on creating unique pieces that speak to her love of nature and strong family connection to ceramics. Shupiwe's journey with ceramics started at a young age. Growing up surrounded by the art of her ceramicist father, Shupiwe was inspired to also explore the world of ceramics. Her family connection to ceramics dates back even further, to her great, great grandmother who was a practising potter in Zambia. Shupiwe began experimenting with ceramics under the direction of her father, later moving on to study at North Metropolitan TAFE (Perth, WA) whilst continuing her own practice from her home studio. Shupiwe mainly practices with stoneware clays producing sculptural forms as well as functional art for the home. She experiments with Raku firing, employing traditional techniques to produce erratic, unique patterns on ceramic forms. 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.