220-2019 – Kala Stein – The Expanded Vessel

Respond to culture, place, and tools to develop work that explores the intersection of design, production, and the handmade. Focusing on pots and vessels, Kala will lead projects to initiate experimental learning combining studio techniques and exposure to historic Italian ceramic traditions.

Along with concentrated studio time, we will aim to strike a fine balance between indulging pleasures of the Tuscan region with cultural and creative exploration. This workshop excursions and experiences to inspire our creative spirits: a cooking class and dinner with renowned Tuscan Chef Lucia Zucconi, Certaldo alto, Siena and a day trip to the town of Volterra where we will see the elegant to extravagant vessels of the Etruscan culture.

Each day in the studio, Kala will demonstrate a technique for making, introducing new ways to think though the ceramic process. Individual investigations are encouraged and supported with pop-up demos and one-on-one conversations. For both throwers and hand builders, some clay experience is necessary. Focusing on process over the fired result, we are not intending to glaze fire in this workshop; however, we can bisque in order for you to take home valuable tokens of the learning process.
Topics include:
finding form through silhouette
local clay
bisque mold & stamps
extruding
templates (for form & pattern)
hybrid construction
handles & appliqué

Kala Stein (b.1979, USA) is an artist and designer noted for innovative mold making and casting techniques. Her work explores dynamic systems and sustainable practices within the intersection of design, production, and the handmade.
Working with clay for 20 years, Kala received a National Endowment for the Arts grant with her collaborative group (2017) to research architectural terracotta in historic Baltimore and respond by using digital technologies in the studio. Kala received her MFA in Ceramics from the New York State College of Ceramics at Alfred University (2009) and her BFA in Ceramics at SUNY New Paltz (2002). Her background includes Moravian Pottery & Tiles Works (2002-2005, PA) and apprenticeship with Donna Polseno & Richard Hensley (2005-2007, VA). She taught ceramics at Alfred University for five years and at various universities and art centers across NY and California.
She spends her time in the Finger Lakes regions of New York State, where she was raised and Sonoma, California where she is the Director of Ceramics & Arts at the Sonoma Community Center.
www.kalastein.com