What is the course about?
This specialist short course focuses on the ceramic surface, with a specific attention given to working on your very own series of decorated tiles. You will be guided through a range of processes exploring repeated patterns and experimental printing techniques for your own tile designs. You will learn how to effectively apply your designs, illustrations or painterly surfaces to your tile forms using techniques such as mono-printing with clay slips, paper and fabric stencilling. You will also learn various techniques in refining and finishing your work.
Tutor Ella Porter, is a ceramic artist whose work displays a strong relationship between surface and form informed by a background in painting and printmaking at Glasgow school of art, and an MA in ceramics from The Royal College of Art.
Is a pre-enrolment interview or assessment required for this course?
No.
What level is the course and do I require particular skills, experience or prior qualifications?
This course is suitable for both beginners and more advanced ceramic makers who have some experience of working with clay and would like to expand their skill set. It is perfect for those who are excited by painting, drawing and printmaking and want to apply these qualities to their ceramic surfaces and forms.
What topics does the course cover?
The course will focus on specialist printing and painting techniques. It will cover cloth mono-printing with clay slips, paper and fabric stencilling, resists, slip application as well as clay preparation, refining and slab-building techniques. All learners will have the opportunity to make a series of decorative tiles which will explore these techniques.
How will I be taught and assessed?
Learners will receive feedback on progress from the tutor on a regular basis. At the end of the course learners will assess their individual progress and progression with the tutor.
Are there any other costs or equipment I need to get?
All equipment, decoration and glaze materials are included, we do make a small charge (priced per kilo) for the clay used before the first firing only.
By the end of the course what should I be able to do?
By the end of the course learners will have the skills and knowledge to work independently and effectively with clay slips and oxides. Students will have gained a good understanding of the importance of timing when working with clay/clay slips, how to use ceramic pigment effectively and how to finish and refine work to a high standard.
All learners will have made a series of 4 individually designed and decorated tiles and 1 other slab built piece of work to take home.
What are the progression opportunities following this course?
You can develop your skills further on one of our other specialist Ceramics short courses, or take an accredited course starting in April or September.