Clay Exploration: Intermediate Ceramics with Alyson Iwamoto

Join artist and educator, Alyson Iwamoto, to expand your ceramic knowledge and vocabulary and further explore the possibilities of clay. Guided by Alyson over the course of two months, participants will explore building on plaster molds, creating paper templates, soft slab construction and how to combine fundamental handbuilding techniques to build complex forms. We will push, pull, carve and bevel clay to create sculptural forms and explore the limits of the medium. Throughout our time together participants will gain a deeper understanding of form and function as well as form vs. function and the spaces in between.

This workshop is best suited for those with a fundamental understanding of ceramics, or those who have taken an introductory class(es) and want to further their ceramic knowledge. Clay is a remarkable material and goes through many transformations as it dries, lending itself to various techniques. Each technique produces a different aesthetic and potential. Throughout the workshop participants will deepen their relationship with the medium and incorporate these fundamental techniques into their own creative practice.

Join for a focused and playful learning environment grounded in exploration and in letting go of expectations. Participants can expect to leave with greater knowledge of hand building that they can incorporate in their life and studio. Potential projects made and not limited to: boxes, jars, colanders, ceramic woven bowls, masks, highly functional or completely sculptural pieces… you choose your adventure.

It is recommended that students have prior experience with ceramics and a basic understanding of working with the material including the different stages of clay; greenware, bisqueware and glazeware.

Throughout the duration of the course, participants will be given clay to work with at home in order to practice, develop ideas and technique outside of class time. All tools and materials are included. All pieces will be fired and ready for pick up within 3 weeks of the final session. All pieces that are glazed will be food, microwave and dishwasher safe.