Organic Sculptures In Clay

This course will introduce you to a variety of handbuilding techniques that can be used to create abstract organic sculptures - slabbing, coiling, pinching and extruding. There will be an emphasis on working with the clay with an open mind and an experimental approach, responding to the clay’s inherent tendencies and expressiveness, letting the clay guide you as well as you guiding it. You will have the opportunity to squish and squeeze, tear, pinch, bash and stretch and texture the clay with all manner of objects. You will also be introduced to the possibilities of incorporating non-ceramic elements pre- and post- firing.

Your tutor will share their processes, inspiration and key influences through an introductory talk and PowerPoint presentation on the first evening. On the following days, there will be demonstrations of each of the processes described above, with clear instructions on the use of tools and equipment, e.g. slab roller, extruder and whirlers.

Starting with guided play, you will collectively explore pushing, pinching, stretching and texturing clay to see what effects can be achieved. As you become more confident with the processes, you will be encouraged to start working towards a final piece/s combining some or all of the techniques that you have learnt and using the sample pieces that you have made for reference. The tutor will always be on hand for guidance and advice, with a selection of books and images for reference as well.

As you will be looking at organic form for inspiration, we may explore the outdoor environment at West Dean for ideas - weather permitting! Of course, you are welcome to bring your own source material to work from.

There will be the opportunity for simple decoration of the final pieces with oxides and once fire glazes are ready for firing at the end of the course.