Description
This weekend workshop will focus on all things slipware! We will explore the ever-evolving art of using coloured liquid clays to decorate ceramics. Synonymous with rural folk pottery and historic craft traditions, this form of decorating and making has endless possibilities. We will spend time looking at and sharing historical slipware pottery techniques, through demonstrations and sharing we will discover the magical qualities of slip and wet on wet decorative methods. We will look at a range of examples, from medieval to Victorian and contemporary British, French, Japanese, American and Eastern European ceramics - to examine the endless approaches to designing, forming and making pots with slip finishes. On the first day we will spend time rolling out slabs, learning about slips, preparing the slips and experimenting. On the second day we will create forms and and finish our final pieces. We will use terracotta clays and traditional and home made tools to make multiple shapes such as plates, bowls, tiles and dishes. With a classic range of slips, we’ll practice methods such as sgrafitto, marbling, pouring, lettering, trailing and feathering slipware. The aim will be for us all to leave with our best creations of vibrant slipware forms.
What's included in the price?
All materials will be provided. Please bring a sketchbook and pen for drawing and to take notes. What will I learn? After this weekend workshop you should have a much greater understanding of what slip is and can be, what tools can be used to create exciting and fun finishes to pots and gain more confidence in all aspects of handling clay and making beautiful pottery. Can I take my work home? You are welcome to take you pieces home and fire them. If you do not have access to a kiln, you can choose two pieces each, to be glazed with a traditional clear glaze by the studio, fired again and ready to collect after 6 weeks. Catering & Accommodation: This weekend is catered for lunches. Half-board accommodation is also available with the residential option. See options below and get in touch to ask any questions. If you choose the residential option, you will be staying in our stylish accommodation on site, The Barrel Store. You will each have a room of your own. The residential option includes a 2-night stay for both Friday & Saturday night. An additional 1-night stay on the Sunday is an optional extra. For your evening meal, you will have access to a fully equipped kitchen in your accommodation. Alternatively, we have a number of recommendations for eateries in Cirencester. If you are attending the 2-day ‘non-residential option’ lunch on both days is included in the ticket price.
Duration
2 days
Cancellation policy
Medium - Cancellation and a full refund can be obtained up to 4 weeks before the course starts
Maker
New Brewery Arts connects people with the hand-made, promotes the joy and fulfilment of making and celebrates the role of craft and creativity in all our lives. We've been at the heart of creativity in the Cotswolds since 1978, and as well as classes and workshops we have craft studios, exhibitions and an amazing shop which sells work by UK craftspeople.
Suitable for
- Adults
- Seniors
- Accommodation offered
- UK Holiday
- Suitable for beginners
- Intermediate level
FAQs
We really hope you don’t need to, but any changes need to be made at least 30 days in advance. No refunds are given for any cancellation made within 30 days of a class commencing. An administration fee of 10% will be made on cancellations or alterations before this time. We cannot offer a refund if you are unwell for any reason and unable to attend.
All our studios are wheelchair accessible and members of our team will be able to assist you if you require. Near the shop on the ground floor we have a disabled toilet and a lift which will allow you access around the building.
If you find it difficult to stand during a class or have any other access needs, please let us know when booking so we can make appropriate arrangements.
Unfortunately, we do not have our own designated car park, however there are plenty around Cirencester. The nearest short stay car park is The Brewery Car Park which is approximately 2 minutes away and is a council run pay and display. This car park has several disabled parking spaces too. Sheep Street Car Park is a longer stay car park 3 minutes away, it is a cashless car park facilitated by Pay by Phone. Full details of all car parks and pricing can be found on Cotswold District Council Website.
We pride ourselves on smaller class sizes, so you get plenty of help from the tutors. Maximum 8-10 students per class.
Of course, and for some classes we may ask you to do this. Please don’t worry, if this is the case it will be clearly shown on the booking pages and in your confirmation emails.
No, we ask that students either bring their own or wear clothes they are happy to get messy in.
You are welcome to bring a lidded bottle of water with you but we kindly ask that you do not bring food or drinks into the studio.
