Ceramics Monday evening: Intermediate and Advanced levels

Class format and activities

You will practice and develop both skill and creativity through personal project work, with guidance from your tutor. Your tutor will demonstrate and discuss a wide range of methods in all hand-building, decorating, glazing and on-glaze techniques for you to explore as appropriate. You will be encouraged to share practice, self-assess and problem solve, through both group and individual discussions. You will be introduced to both current and historical ceramic practice through slideshows and encouraged to visit museums and galleries to compliment your contextual study. Your tutor will produce a wide range of resources and reference material for your use. We have 10 throwing wheels in the class and a wide range of clays and glazes.

Learning Outcomes

• 01: You will further develop chosen making skills in a range of ceramic techniques e.g.. hand-building, throwing, decoration and glazing
• 02: You will learn to discuss and question appropriate techniques and materials in order to develop individual project work
• 03: Develop an awareness of both historical and contemporary approaches in ceramics
• 04: Demonstrate awareness of Health and Safety issues in ceramics through safe studio practice, with consideration towards others

Course entry requirements

The course is for students who have previously practiced the fundamental techniques and processes involved in ceramics. Students are expected to have had at least 2 terms, ideally 3, on the beginners programme before enrolling in these classes. Please do read carefully to ensure it’s the appropriate class. You should have the following: - A good working knowledge of the ceramic process and all core hand-building construction techniques. - A good basic knowledge of slips, oxide and glaze applications methods. - If using the Wheel you should be already able to centre the clay. Demonstrations will be ongoing and specific to the groups requirements. These classes have none of the basic methods demonstrated and are meant for you to develop and refine your skills and personal projects. However, there will be practical demonstrations of all the above to enhance and develop your understanding and skills. If the tutor thinks you do not have the appropriate level of skill required they may ask you to join a beginners to intermediate class. If unsure, please contact the art administrators: [email protected]

What you need to know before you enrol

Both wheel throwing and wedging clay requires a moderate level of physical fitness – if you have any concerns or requirements please discuss this with your tutor who will be happy to give guidance, or assistance if required. The ceramics studio is on the 3rd floor and there is lift access.

What to bring to class

A notebook and pen is useful. You will also need an apron or old shirt. Your tutor will advise you about which tools to purchase. We make a £2 per kilo charge for clay, which includes the bisque and glaze firing.

What you can do next

Morley College offers a wide range of courses at all levels of ability, including a certified HND Ceramics course. Students can also look to progress onto other part or full time Ceramics or 3D courses such as BETC, BA degree or MA postgraduate courses Your tutor is also happy to advise you in setting up your own studio. After several years of study many students progress to setting up their own ceramic practice and exhibiting in open studio / house weekends and local and national craft fairs.