22A-2022 – Pietro Maddalena – Lidded Forms and Knobandalls!

Introduction

In this workshop, students will learn to create a wide assortment of well designed, balanced and fully functional lidded forms. Students will also learn to alter and to add an assortment of interesting textures to each of their lidded pots.

Techniques

The course will start with a concentration on throwing skills. Pietro Maddalena will present a variety of ways of manipulating clay, from preparation to throwing and finishing processes. For each technique, there will be demos and thought-provoking considerations in order to understand the approach fully. To complete the forms, we will explore different ways of making knobs, feet and handles, pulled, hand built and more.

Teaching Method

One-on-one instruction in addition to repetition practice at the wheel will be major parts of the daily format. A slide show about lidded forms will be presented and we will discuss their esthetical, functional and practical aspects. Furthermore, the splendour of the surrounding Tuscan countryside will contribute as an inspiration to explore the concept of beauty in pots.  Drawing or sketching pots prior to making will shorten the ‘learning curve’ for students. Students will have the option of decorating their work using both coloured slips (combing, paper resist, brushing, pouring, etc) and a variety of glazes ( thin/thick, double glazing, wax resist, etc).

Aim

By the end of the workshop, students will be able to think through the design of multiple functional lidded forms and create a perfect fitting lid that compliments those forms. Students will also refine some decorating and finishing techniques. Students will each choose their best pots to continue through the firing processes. The workshop is designed for intermediate to advanced skill level.

Logistics

On every class day, a delicious meal will be served. Lodging is included as well. Field trips to Siena, S. Gimignano and Certaldo alto are part of the programme and are included in the cost.

 The Artist

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