In Precious Surface and Decors we focus on layering materials—such as glazes, sand, glass, silver, decals, and lusters. This process – incorporating firing at varying temperatures – creates unique, luxurious surfaces and decorative effects, ideal for jewelry and beyond.
Techniques taught
For experimenting with decorative techniques, we choose the ring as our basic form. Being three-dimensional, it allows exploring any type of shape and texture, in harmony with the different surface treatments, as well as the technical constraints each technique presents during firing and when positioning the object in the kiln. Therefore, during the initial phase of the course students will learn how to make porcelain rings and design their own custom firing supports. Of course, the same techniques can be equally applied to small porcelain pieces, as well as to stoneware and larger ceramic objects when working at home after the course.
With the rings ready, we move into a wide range of decorative techniques. Some of them will be applied to bone-dry clay, others at the bisque stage, and some on pieces that have already been high-fired. The focus of the course is on understanding the different options to create layered stratifications, resulting in unique and intricate surfaces. Materials used will include a range of glazes (such as clear glaze, lava glaze, and crawling glaze), as well as sand, glass, silver, ceramic decals, and lusters. All firings will be conducted in an oxidizing atmosphere using an electric kiln.
Teaching method
The course program consists of demonstrations for the whole group and individual follow-up and support by the instructor. As the workshop involves a wide range of techniques and multiple firing cycles, we follow a well-planned program starting at 9:00 am and finishing at 5:00 pm each working day. This structure allows each student to create a sufficient number of pieces to experiment with each demonstrated technique.
Logistics
Students arrive on Sunday, May 9, and departure will be on Saturday, May 15, 2027.
On all working days two coffee breaks and a freshly prepared and delicious lunch are provided by La Meridiana. At booking, you may select your preferred room type, choosing between: standard lodging, single or shared room; upgraded accommodation; private apartment. Please note that depending on the availability, certain types at times may not be offered.
The instructor
Luca Tripaldi lives in Florence where he has his studio. After training in graphic design, he worked for ten years as a sculptor and set designer, making masks and special effects for renowned opera houses like The Scala in Milan and The Arena of Verona. In 1998 he opened his own ceramic studio. He uses porcelain, preferring unglazed surfaces and is known for his Contemporary Art Jewelry. He conducts an intensive teaching activity, holding workshops throughout Europe and the United States. He never gets tired of experimenting and he dedicates particular attention to the pedagogical aspects, with the aim of making learning easier for his students. www.lucatripaldi.com @lucatripaldiporcelainandmore
