18 – 2021 Franco Rampi – On the Wheel

Introduction

On the wheel is the intensive course  that offers an opportunity for further development in throwing and finishing techniques. The continued studio time during one month, the specific exercises, the effectiveness of the demonstrations and the focussed critique will open a perspective for substantial progress.

Techniques taught

Throughout the programme of  there will demonstrations on the wheel of different forms including bowls, cups, plates, vases, teapots, pitchers, boxes, and many lidded forms. We will talk about timing! Considering when to add spouts and handles, when to trim and when to alter.  Demonstrations with decoration will include the modelling and clay additions to the form, fluting, facetting and carving, application of slip and various slip processes, application of glaze and various glaze processes. We will use a stoneware clay to make pottery forms for both functional and decorative uses and the students will quickly see the wide range of possibilities provided throughout the course.

Teaching method

Teaching is based on demonstrations and much individual attention. A programme of technical and visual talks will complete the demos and the practical work. Students will receive handouts that sum up the technical information about clay, materials and glazes plus video clips for individual repetition of all techniques shown. Throughout the course, there will be aesthetic considerations that will help participants to make choices. There will be the participation of Pietro Maddalena, to further enrich the depth of discussion about aesthetics and techniques.

Logistics

This intensive course is open to all levels but some previous experience with clay may be an advantage. The course is open for a maximum of 8 students. A delicious mid day meal is included on all working days.

The Artist

Franco Rampi was born in Domodossola. He started working as a potter in 1981. After an apprenticeship in England and a cycle of studies in Italy he opened his own studio in Tuscany. He produces both functional objects in small series and one off pieces. He works mainly in stoneware, whilst continuing his research on clays, slips and forms. For ten years he has been teaching and collaborating with La Meridiana, and assisting John Colbeck in throwing and long term courses.www.francorampi.it

Pietro Elia Maddalena studied ceramics at the West Surrey College of Art & Design in England. After two more years of work at Dartington Workshop, he returned to Italy where in 1980 he established a studio in Certaldo, near Florence. Pietro is the founder and director of the International School of Ceramics LA MERIDIANA located in Tuscany, Italy. Also instructor and maker he says of himself : “ I am totally and continuously interested in the process of making. I see the craft object as a projection of the human spirit and the culture in which it was nurtured. In elaborating concept, material and process, my ultimate goal is the expression of beauty through sophisticated and sensual forms” www.pietro.net